How do you optimize charging strategies for electric fleet vehicles?

I believe there are many cases and interconnected points on this topic. Having worked in previous companies and now being the founder of my own, I've had the opportunity to see some cases firsthand. For instance, if you are a rent-a-car company, you probably wouldn't want your cars to be parked all the time, but you also need an instant solution for cars that come back with empty batteries. For these two cases, the best solution seems to be having very high public charging accessibility while the car is on the road, i.e., with the driver, and designing a good experience around it. When the car returns to the parking spot, you should manage the process with mobile charging or depot charging.

I think this is a very critical issue for fleets because maintenance and the need for a car to be used as much as possible are paramount. Although a lot of research is being conducted, a 100% accurate determination of the effect of DC and AC chargers on batteries has not been found. However, research on battery technologies and battery life from the past, like with other technological devices, suggests that the heat, power, and pressure created by rapid charging are not considered suitable for battery health. Yet, charging at a slow rate also creates a contradictory case regarding the circulation and efficiency of vehicles in the fleet.

Driving an ev is totally different than an ice vehicle. I find the best ways to optimize range is brake regen mode Feathering of the accelerator pedal and even changing how I used heat and ac Heated seats and steering wheel don’t pull power from the drive range battery Ac only when really needed and close the vents not being used Augment how do you drive to optimize how you drive

Optimizing EV charging schedules is crucial for cost-efficiency and sustainability. Incorporating time-of-use rates can significantly reduce costs by leveraging lower rates during off-peak hours. Moreover, integrating renewable energy sources like solar or wind can enhance sustainability. However, the key to truly optimizing charging is the adoption of smart charging technologies. These not only allow for automation and monitoring but also adapt charging schedules based on real-time grid demands and energy prices. This approach not only reduces costs but also supports grid stability and promotes the use of green energy. Let's not forget the importance of data analytics in fine-tuning these strategies for even better efficiency and savings.

I agree with the comments. According to my research;. Invest in smart charging infrastructure that allows for remote monitoring and control of charging stations. This enables fleet managers to adjust charging schedules based on real-time conditions. Use predictive analytics to anticipate charging needs based on historical data, vehicle usage patterns, and upcoming routes. This helps in planning charging schedules more effectively.

Effective battery maintenance is essential for optimizing electric fleet performance and longevity. Key practices include avoiding extreme temperatures, preventing deep discharges, and cautious charging. Parking in shaded or insulated areas can protect batteries from temperature extremes. It's crucial to keep the charge between 20-80% to prevent stress, with smart charging technology playing a pivotal role in managing this balance efficiently. Moreover, regular monitoring to avoid overcharging and ensuring batteries aren't left plugged in excessively can significantly extend battery life. These strategies not only mitigate replacement costs but also enhance vehicle reliability and operational efficiency.

This is not a simple concept as the data and research is still limited. However, if we continue to use old strategies like wardrop planning and operational/systematic route planning. We can plan accordingly when choosing routes for our freight and choice of transport. If these strategies are utilized correctly. We can set up charging stations at the loading docks. This will reduce stopping for recharging/refuelling and will help with the increasing speed of the supply chain field. Now this is only a short term suggestion, until more information becomes available! We have many unknown factors here that we have no control over. For example, battery life, weather conditions, traffic and many other factors that our dispatchers encounter.

I work with electric vehicles and unlike your phones Ford vehicles have strategies in the becm that controls battery charging for increased battery life and performance. 100 percent is 80, once hv battery is charged it maintains 12v battery and temperature of hv battery for maximum range.