The interest generated by the recent announcement of the introduction of commercial electric buses and the planned massive deployment of the same in Lagos State as part of the state’s mass transit strategy was intense and remains topical as many believe that EV buses at a commercial scale are not sustainable and durable under the current Nigerian scenario. This however appears to be the beginning of interesting conversations and debates that can fast-track the nation’s energy transition and the adoption of EVs. It signals to the world that Nigeria is serious about being counted among the League of Nations dedicated to a cleaner and greener environment by reducing carbon emissions and building a sustainable future for its urban cities. Additionally, it will make us more aware of affordable, cleaner, and safer transit options.
Generally, electric vehicles are an increasingly attractive option, due to their lower running costs and the expanding choice of models available as well as intensifying concerns about air quality and climate change. Electric buses are a cleaner, safer alternative to polluting diesel buses—and cheaper to operate but they cost up to three to four times more than a traditional diesel-powered bus.
Lagos State already has an outstanding history of providing innovative and forward-thinking transportation services for commuters in this much-congested city, and by embarking on an exciting investigation of moving toward natural gas-powered fleet and electric mobility as alternatives to fossil fuel, the state is yet again demonstrating its leadership in the field through deliberate actions by charting a pathway for achieving net zero emission for its city transportation in the very near future.
In general, the reactions and responses of Nigerians trailing the recent planned introduction of electric buses in Lagos state suggest however that there is a significantly low level of public knowledge and information about electric vehicle technology and its performance. As a result, this piece is intended to cover basic information on EV technology and provide an overview of the transition model from fossil fuels to electric automobiles as well as its impact on future mobility.
What is an Electric Vehicle?
Electric Vehicle(EV) can be defined as “a vehicle which is powered by an electric motor drawing current from rechargeable storage batteries, fuel cells, or other portable sources of electrical current, and which may include a nonelectrical source of power designed to charge batteries and components thereof. EVs produce zero emissions at the tailpipe and are considered to be more environmentally friendly than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles which are referred to as Internal Combustion Engines(ICE).
Electric vehicles are generally classified into three types: 1. Battery Electric Vehicles(BEVs); 2. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles(PHEVs); and 3. Hybrid Electric Vehicles(HEVs). Battery Electric Vehicles(BEVs) are entirely electric vehicles that run only on a battery charge and do not require any additional fuel engine. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are a type of hybrid vehicle that combines a gasoline or diesel engine with an electric motor and a large battery. They are recharged by plugging them into an electric vehicle charging station. Hybrid electric vehicles are vehicles that operate on both electricity and gasoline.
The major parts of electric vehicles are as follows: 1. Charge Port: This connects the electric vehicle to a power source from outside. It charges the battery pack. The charging port is sometimes located at the front or back of the vehicle. 2. Traction battery pack: Another word for an electric vehicle battery (EVB) is a traction battery pack. It powers the motors of an electric vehicle. The battery serves as a source of power storage. Direct current (DC) is a type of energy storage. 3. DC-DC Converter: The traction battery pack maintains a consistent voltage level. The DC-DC converter converts the battery’s output power to the desired level. The standards for various vehicles complicate movement, on the other hand.
The battery size and type are critical. There are two types of batteries predominantly used in electric vehicles, namely, nickel-based aqueous batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Due to their high voltage, reliable discharge and good lifecycle, lithium-ion batteries are currently the most widely used battery system for electric buses. For a battery to perform at its optimum level, its operating windows of temperature, voltage, and structural changes should be considered.
The majority of EVs do not have multi-speed transmissions, instead, a single-speed transmission regulates the electric motor. They do not require clutch or gears like internal combustion engines.
Electric vehicles have other advantages over those powered by combustion engines, they do not require any fueling; they are environmentally friendly as they do not emit pollutants; they have Lower maintenance due to an efficient electric motor. They are silent and acceleration is seamless with no jerking or noise. Electric vehicles have a higher efficiency than Internal Combustion Engines. Plug-in electric vehicles (BEVs and PHEVs) have the highest efficiencies, both for vehicle and well-to-wheel, since there are no intermediate energy transformations.
Electric Vehicles have a unique braking system that replenishes the battery. This is known as “Regenerative Braking.” Regenerative braking is a feature of EV transmissions that allows the battery to be recharged while slowing down by lifting the foot from the accelerator pedal. Electric motors allow them to slow down via regenerative braking. This means that EV brake rotors and pads tend to have longer service lives than those of ICE vehicles.
The fuel economy of an electric vehicle is reported in terms of km per litre of fuel equivalent (Km/Ltre). Think of this as being similar to km/ltr, but instead of presenting km per litre of the vehicle’s fuel type, it represents the number of km the vehicle can go using a quantity of electricity with the same energy content as a litre of diesel. This allows you to compare an EV with a fuel vehicle even though electricity is not dispensed or burned in terms of litres(Kw/h)
The driving range of an electric vehicle (EV) can vary depending on several factors, including the model of the vehicle, battery capacity, driving style, weather conditions, and terrain. It is worth noting that the driving range of an EV is not always linear. As the battery depletes, the range may begin to decrease more rapidly toward the end of the charge. For this reason, it is recommended to plan for a charging stop before the battery is completely depleted to avoid running out of power during a trip.
However, the most significant disadvantage of electric vehicles is that they must be charged regularly. Aside from that, increasing the weight of these vehicles reduces their capacity. Electric vehicles with little energy and capacity can sometimes fall behind fuel-powered ones.
EV Infrastructure
Electric vehicles require batteries with high capacity to meet their needs for short cycles and long-range operations. Batteries in electric vehicles are in various capacities for daily operations and they require high power charging and a wide range of power needs, that reflect the diversity of vehicle sizes and operational patterns. Recharging the batteries can be done via Fast, Ultra-fast, and/or Mega-charging technologies. Charging EVs requires a robust network of stations for both consumers and fleets.
There are three main types of charging systems for electric vehicles:
1. Level 1 Charging: This is the slowest type of charging and uses a standard household 120-volt outlet. Level 1 charging provides up to 8km of driving range per hour and is best suited for vehicles with smaller battery capacities, such as plug-in hybrids.
2. Level 2 Charging: This type of charging uses a 240-volt outlet, which is the same outlet used for large home appliances like clothes dryers. Level 2 charging provides up to 40km of driving range per hour and is suitable for most electric vehicles.
3. DC Fast Charging: Also known as Level 3 charging, this is the fastest type of charging and uses a high-voltage DC charging station. DC fast charging can provide up to 80% of a vehicle’s battery capacity in just 30 minutes and is commonly found in public charging stations along highways and major roads.
Maintenance of Electric Vehicles
The maintenance of electric vehicles (EVs) is generally simpler and less frequent than that of traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. EVs have fewer moving parts, which means fewer components require regular maintenance or replacement. However, there are still some maintenance tasks that EV owners should be aware of. One important maintenance task for EVs is keeping the battery in good condition. EV batteries should be charged regularly and should not be allowed to fully discharge, as this can reduce their lifespan. It is also important to keep the battery cool, as high temperatures can accelerate the degradation of the battery. Another important maintenance task for EVs is keeping the tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires can increase rolling resistance, which can reduce the range of the vehicle and cause unnecessary wear on the tires. In addition to these tasks, EV owners should also follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, which may include tasks such as brake pad replacement and coolant system flushes. It is also important to have the vehicle’s electrical system inspected periodically to ensure that the wiring and connectors are in good condition. Overall, while the maintenance of EVs is generally simpler than that of traditional vehicles, it is still important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and to take steps to keep the battery and tires in good condition.
The reduced total cost of ownership is one of the great advantages of EVs. With fewer moving parts and no oil changes, EVs have a simplified EV fleet maintenance program. However, all standard services and repairs like brakes, tires, lights, HVAC, and other common items will still be necessary regularly. EV maintenance involves more visual inspections and checks. Electric buses typically enjoy 50% lower maintenance costs.
Driver experience
Everyone must understand how the technology in an electric vehicle works and how driver behavior affects energy consumption. A good driver can help keep costs down and reduce the environmental impact. Electric vehicles will be better for the drivers’ overall well-being, as driving them is less stressful, even in heavy traffic, and because frequent gear shifting is not needed. EVs generally demonstrate higher capacity to provide greater torque at slow speeds and maintain high performance at low temperatures.
In the case of electric buses, the driver’s cabin is free from the vibration, noise, and heat generated by ICEs which can cause health problems for drivers. Electric buses are reliable and experience fewer breakdowns than their ICE buses. Most of the electric bus breakdowns currently experienced are not related to the batteries or the power train, but rather to things such as flat tires, steering jams, and problems with air brakes, doors, air-conditioning, and electronic components like sensors and other accessories.
Drivers are however advised not to attempt any repairs when there are breakdowns, EVs must be towed away in almost all cases. The drivers are not expected to do anything other than identify the error code displayed on the electronic instrument cluster of the vehicle and report that to a technician over the phone.
Passenger experience
Passenger experience in an Electric Vehicle (EV) is notably positive and can be different from that of a traditional gas-powered vehicle. EVs are known for quieter operations compared to gas-powered vehicles making the rides more peaceful and relaxing without any noise or vibration. The electric motor provides smooth power delivery, making for a more comfortable ride since they don’t have a transmission with gears that can jerk as the vehicle accelerates or decelerates. Acceleration can be fun and exhilarating experience for passengers as EVs can often provide instant torque, which means that they can accelerate quickly from a stop. The regenerative braking can feel different for passengers than the traditional feeling of a gas-powered car when the driver lifts their foot off the accelerator, the car decelerates, and the regenerative braking kicks in.
However, range anxiety is more of a concern for the driver than the passengers, it can impact the entire ride experience if Passengers may be more aware of the driving range of the vehicle. EV driving experience can be just as enjoyable as that of a traditional vehicle.
Managing Electric Vehicle Fleet
The introduction of Electric Vehicles will be disrupting the fleet management space in several ways and may likely become a game changer. Connected data is critical in enabling long-term informed decision-making for a thriving EV ecosystem. Actionable insights that maximize ROI of EV adoption over the short and long term. Utilizing available data to reduce and optimize costs (i.e., charging solutions, vehicle selection, and driving behavior). To ensure the fleet’s full functioning, it’s necessary to constantly collect and analyze data on the battery charge status of all of the EVs in the fleet to make the optimal charging schedule. The usage of modern IoT platforms can help businesses address this challenge, as they can remotely monitor the status of key vehicle parameters online.
Fleet managers of electric vehicles have to concern themselves with critical data regarding the following;
- Emissions reductions and delivery of renewable energy to ensure zero emissions
- Electricity capacity of sites
- New depot configurations
- Battery range of the fleet vehicles – energy consumption per km
- Impact of Topography and climate on battery efficiency and range
- Route optimization
- Charging management
- Energy generation (such as onsite batteries and solar power)
- Driver behaviour
- The total cost of ownership is based on balancing higher upfront costs with lower operating costs
Telematics can also play a vital role in supporting an electric fleet through specific functions that include vehicle health reports, battery health/status monitoring, integration of systems and apps, etc.
Policy Framework needed
To encourage the use of electric vehicles in Nigeria, several policies and an expansion of regulatory refinement are needed. Through the implementation of the National Transport Policy and an Environment-Friendly Transport Policy, the government must provide a strong policy framework to encourage sustainable and electric transportation. The deployment of electric vehicles will have particular goals specified by this policy. In a broader sense, Nigeria’s acceptance of the Sustainable Development Goals and its ratification of the UNFCCC would further solidify the country’s decision to change its overall policy in favor of electric transportation. Additionally, the government must encourage the use of electric vehicles by drastically lowering import tariffs and other fees, particularly for use in the transportation or public sector.
Deploying the Electric Bus Pilot Initiative in Lagos
In deploying commercial electric buses in Lagos state, the state would require several considerations and actions to be taken. Firstly, it would be important to assess the existing public transportation system in Lagos and identify where electric buses would be most effective.
This would involve analyzing existing transport routes, passenger volumes, and traffic patterns to determine the optimal areas for deployment. Next, investment in charging infrastructure would be necessary to support electric buses. This would involve installing charging stations across Lagos especially at the depots to ensure the buses can operate reliably and efficiently. Another important factor is funding for the electric buses themselves. It would also be important to ensure that there are sufficient regulations and policies in place to support the adoption of electric buses. This could involve incentivizing the use of electric buses, implementing emissions standards, and creating legal frameworks for electric bus operations.
Therefore, to avoid costly mistakes in the transition to fleet electrification being considered by the Lagos state government, the pilot scheme has to take into consideration the following;
- A well-defined Charging Infrastructure Plan – The plan should consider the following; Design of the Charging Facilities, Utility Engagement, Planning for Grid Resilience, Ensuring Reliable Charging, Managed Charging, Charging Infrastructure Costs and Timelines, Financing Charging
- Topography and Routes – Benchmark routes in terms of the complexity of their topography and climatic variability. Geographical areas with particularly demanding driving conditions of steep ascents and descents, and a variety of climatic conditions would impact driving behaviour and energy consumption. Route characteristics and existing infrastructure will consider the number of bus stations, the number of passengers, the operating time (day or night), and the charging mode/time.
- Interoperability between the Batteries and the Charging systems – figuring out the right technology and the communications protocols- the battery’s power and the charger’s size must be a good fit.
- Tech Support – EVs are heavily digitized new technology. Tech support is critically important both on the fleet and charging infrastructure sides. Choose the right external partners (vehicle OEMs, EVSE suppliers, engineering firms).
- Training and Education – EVs are add-ons to the existing fleet and not replacements and so the daily scheduling and the operational practices must be well in place for these new sets of fleet. New things to learn about operating an electric fleet. Staff have to be well educated about the operational and maintenance practices as well as managing the change that comes with the transition. Champion change management that comes with the O&M of EV buses.
- Analyzing the financial viability of electric buses on chosen routes as well as capture and utilize valuable pilot data to inform future deployments. Compare operations and maintenance costs of diesel and electric buses.
- Feedback to regulatory authorities – educating policymakers and stakeholders to be able to understand the standards required for operating electric buses.
- Competent hands – Be ready to learn along the way and also ensure that competent hands are employed to handle these high-tech operations.
- Healthy mix – Fossil fuel-powered vehicles are still going to be around for a pretty long time to come as there never going to be a complete swap out of the fleet, but the focus should rather be on having a healthy mix of energy-saving, environment-friendly propulsion
Overall, deploying commercial electric buses in Lagos state would require a collaborative effort between the government, private sector organizations, and local communities. With the right support and investment, however, it could bring significant benefits in terms of reducing emissions, improving air quality, and promoting sustainable urban transportation in the city of Lagos
Engineer Gerald Omo-Osagie
CEO, FLEETLOG LIMITED
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