Assessment of energy efficiency of battery electric buses in cold regions

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

2025

Subject Area

place - north america, place - urban, mode - bus, infrastructure - vehicle, infrastructure - fleet management, economics - operating costs, technology - alternative fuels, planning - route design, policy - environment, policy - sustainable

Keywords

Battery electric buses, Energy consumption, Regenerative braking efficiency, Operational dynamics, Sustainable transportation systems, Real-world conditions

Abstract

This study examines the energy consumption and regenerative braking efficiency of battery electric buses (BEBs) using real-world data from Montreal’s public transit network. Results show significant seasonal variations, with winter having the highest energy consumption due to heating demands and adverse road conditions, while summer has the lowest due to reduced auxiliary energy use and smoother traffic flow. Regenerative braking is most effective at mid-speed ranges (30–50 km/h), with peak efficiency in warmer months and a decline in winter, emphasizing environmental influences. Auxiliary heating and cooling demands significantly impact energy efficiency, especially in extreme climates. Cost analysis confirms BEBs’ lower operating costs compared to diesel and hybrid buses. Optimizing BEB operations requires improvements in route planning, fleet scheduling, and charging strategies. By addressing previous data limitations, this study provides insights to enhance BEB efficiency and support their broader adoption in sustainable public transit systems.

Rights

Permission to publish the abstract has been given by Elsevier, copyright remains with them.

Comments

Transportation Research Part D Home Page:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/13619209

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