Implementation strategies of electric buses for sustainable urban transport

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Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Insinööritieteiden korkeakoulu | Master's thesis

Date

2024-08-19

Department

Major/Subject

Sustainable Urban Mobility Transitions

Mcode

ENG3085

Degree programme

Master’s programme in Urban Mobility

Language

en

Pages

120 + 2

Series

Abstract

The transition to low-emission public transport is imperative for mitigating urban air pollution and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This thesis critically examines the technological, environmental, economic, and operational dimensions of integrating Battery Electric Buses (BEBs), Fuel Cell Electric Buses (FCEBs), Hybrid Electric Buses (HEBs), and Trolley Bus Hybrids (TBHs) within the urban public transport systems of Slovakia and the Czech Republic. Through an extensive review of the literature on powertrain tech-nologies, charging infrastructure, Life Cycle Assessments (LCA), and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), this study evaluates the impacts of electric propulsion technologies on emissions and noise pollution. Case studies from both major cities and smaller towns that have implemented electric buses to varying degrees illustrate diverse approaches influenced by local policies and funding mechanisms. This research incorporates qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 13 experts and 6 users, providing comprehensive insights into operational challenges and public acceptance from multiple perspectives. The findings highlight the critical role of supportive legislative frameworks and strategic infrastructure investments in facilitating the adoption of electric buses. Key challenges identified include managing high initial costs, ensuring a reliable energy supply, and addressing specific maintenance requirements. Future research recommendations emphasize the need for expanding infrastructure, optimizing operational strategies and legislation, and broadening the scope of studies to include more stakeholders. Furthermore, the creation of a centralized database for information sharing among cities is suggested to reduce barriers to the adoption of electric buses.

Description

Supervisor

Mladenović, Miloš

Thesis advisor

Barreira, Cesar Trapote
Islam, Karma

Keywords

electric buses, sustainable public transportation, alternative fuels, public transport, battery electric buses, hydrogen fuel cell electric buses

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Citation