Potential benefit and challenge analysis of photovoltaic-integrated electric vehicles applied in merchandise delivery services: a case study

Photovoltaics-integrated electric vehicles (PVEVs) are expected to play a significant role in promoting renewable energy adoption in the transportation sector. In this case study, we investi- gated the benefits of PVEVs introduced as a service car for merchandise delivery operations in Fukushima, Japan. Data such as solar irradiation and battery state of charge (SOC) were collected using a demonstration EV and analyzed over 12 months. According to the PV power generation calculated from the solar irradiation, it was found that approximately 50% of the EV’s energy could potentially be achieved by installing PV modules covering the roof of the demonstration EV. Additionally, challenges to fully utilize the power generated by onboard PVs were identified. It was suggested that smart SOC control functions enabling PV prediction/charging stop are necessary to minimize the suppression of the onboard PVs due to no vacancy of the battery. However, even if such smart functionality is given to the vehicle, there could be possibility of inevitable PV suppression. Therefore, so-called vehicle-to-X technology will be necessary to fully exploit the power from onboard PVs.