Innovation Needs for the Integration of Electric Vehicles into the Energy System

Stefan Wolf,Roman Korzynietz

doi:10.3390/wevj10040076

Abstract

The mitigation of climate change and the substitution of fossil energy sources is one of the greatest tasks of our time. Electric mobility is the most promising solution to decarbonize the transport sector. As the market for electric vehicles is quickly gaining momentum, an urgent need for an intelligent integration of the energy and mobility system arises. This integration leads to a multitude of technical, economic and social challenges. Through a validated road-mapping process, the needs for future research, development, standardisation and regulation have been identified and visualised. Recommendations for action for decision-makers in politics and industry have been derived from those innovation needs. In summary, the most promising innovation path is the consequent application of smart and flexible charging concepts as well as an adaption of the regulations and roles in combination with the consequent usage of renewable energies. In five to ten years, also synergies through the exploitation of autonomous electric vehicles will gain momentum.

Highlights

The influence of human activities on climate system is clear and the observable climate change can largely be attributed to anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases [1]
Results are given for the relevant steps of the evaluation shown in Figure 2, to provide a transparent overview of the knowledge basis that lead to the recommendations for action
Electric vehicles are widely seen as a more climate friendly alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEV)

Summary

Introduction

The influence of human activities on climate system is clear and the observable climate change can largely be attributed to anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases [1]. The transport sector counts for 19.5% of the European Union greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions [2]. This, did not result in a significant reduction of GHG emissions. Compared to the reference year 1990, GHG emissions from the transport sector increased by 2.2% in Germany [4] and by 28% in the EU [5]. This is mainly caused by a growing economic activity and increasing transport demands, and due to the tendency towards heavier and stronger vehicles

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