Impacts of electric vehicles on traffic-power systems: A review

Abstract

This article offers a comprehensive summary of the profound impacts stemming from the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into traffic-power systems. While the introduction of EVs promises to curtail greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the automotive sector, it could trigger a cascade of effects across the intertwined traffic-power system. These ramifications manifest in several key areas, including (i) shifts in driver behavior and route choice, (ii) alterations in energy consumption patterns, (iii) the expansion and placement of charging infrastructure, and (iv) the evolving demands placed on the electric grid. Although the current penetration rate of EVs remains relatively low, their increasing presence on the road will inevitably amplify these consequences, leading to altered traffic dynamics, more conservative driving behavior to reduce energy consumption, and an uptick in electricity demand during charging periods. This review meticulously summarizes the multifaceted effects of EV integration in these domains and outlines various strategies and technologies aimed at mitigating these challenges. These include eco-driving techniques that leverage intelligent vehicle controls to minimize energy consumption, innovative charging schemes to flatten the electricity demand curve, and the implementation of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication enabling vehicles to better respond to their surroundings, among others. In summary, this review seeks to consolidate the current academic consensus regarding EV performance within the integrated traffic-power network while paving the way for future research directions in this dynamic field.