Electric Vehicle Fleet Charging: A Simulation-Based Comparison of Charging Strategies and Cost Implications

Abstract

The global shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is progressing rapidly, driven by the need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and global reliance on fossil fuels. However, fleet electrification presents unique challenges, particularly in regard to rolling out the necessary charging infrastructure and operational efficiency. This study examines how various depot-based fleet charging strategies impact up-front capital and long-term operational expenditures. The operational feasibility of each method is evaluated through the use of a discrete event simulation. The study incorporates fleet data to assess the time required to charge the fleet, the number of chargers needed, and the number of associates needed to operate manual strategies. The analyzed charging methods include dedicated level 2 charging, vehicle swapping, level 2 cable swapping, level 3 cable swapping, sequential and simultaneous charging. Key findings indicate that while a 1:1 vehicle-to-charger ratio ensures charging reliability within the designated time, it incurs the highest capital costs. Alternative strategies, such as cable swapping and simultaneous charging, significantly reduce costs while successfully charging the fleet within the charging window.