A Review: Charging infrastructure optimisation to support widespread adoption of electric vehicles
• EV smart charging reduced surplus generation and peak loads. Higher EV shares resulted in higher electrical losses due to higher consumption, while the EV smart charging scheme minimised losses because of lower peak loads. Using smart charging resulted in somewhat lesser surplus generation compared to not using energy management system (EMS). Smart charging can help reduce peaks in power demand caused by electric vehicles. Scheduling algorithms can adjust grid power consumption based on battery charging needs and grid support. • Battery degradation is caused by cycling aging and calender, so it is recommended to adopt Solid-state and Li-ion batteries have higher energy density and lifespan than the traditional nickel-based and lead-acid batteries, which are not as effective in the next generation of EV batteries. Battery swapping mitigates the strain on the grid and enhances users’ experience. EV batteries are reused for grid stabilisation, energy storage and backup power. Using a circular economic strategy reduces the need for new batteries and improves sustainability by integration RE. • The integration of PV into off-board charging systems improves energy efficiency and traditional charging techniques depend on the electrical grid, which might result in energy losses in conversion and transmission. V2G technology processes large volumes of data and necessitates cybersecurity measures for smooth operation and grid safety. Cyber-attacks are a potential threat to this technology. Effective data transmission from EVs to the grid requires network security and integrity. • By considering clients’ everyday charging needs, limiting range anxiety and improving resource distribution, fast charging station (FCS) placement could result in an efficient and successful charging infrastructure. This could be achieved by striking the appropriate balance between FCS closeness and range anxiety. Partnership among governments, corporations and research bodies is critical for overcoming challenges to widespread implementation of EVs. • Unplanned charging increases grid demand, leads to voltage fluctuations, power loss, charging delays, transformer aging and overloading. Smart charging solutions address these difficulties. To stabilise the grid and achieve grid objectives, peak shaving, smart charging, renewable energy storage, load-leveling, spinning reserve, frequency and voltage regulation, virtual power plants (VPPs), congestion mitigation, recurrent renewable energy limitation and economy-based services like charging cost reduction are vital and recommended. G2V and V2G networks decrease grid dependency, produce yearly profits and optimise the amount of EV charging stations required. Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained popularity because of a variety of reasons, such as lower prices and more environmental and climate awareness. More specifically, an evaluation of the prospects and global market scenario for EVs is done. Many countries are accelerating the adoption of EVs to minimise environmental degradation and reliance on oil. The introduction of EVs, specifically battery electric vehicle (BEV), is viewed as a remedy to the energy problem and environmental concerns. This article presents a thorough examination of the technical evolution of EVs and technologies to support their adoption. The key technologies for electric motors, control, batteries, charging technology and EV control and charging infrastructure (CI) are summarised. This is a review study that focuses on certain key technologies in this regard, including smart charging, vehicle-to-grid (V2G), EV charging using photovoltaic panels (PV) and EV on-road charging. Smart charging of EVs is intended to increase EV and renewable energy penetration, reduce charging costs and improve grid infrastructure utilisation. This study also discusses technological problems and technologies to improve the safety, reliability and efficiency of EVs. The study found that the key technologies play vital roles in EV sustainability and reliability. The studies revealed that the most significant drawback of EVs is their autonomy. Charging infrastructure for electric vehicles is critical for enabling a smooth transition to e-mobility. To promote the use of electrified transportation, an extensive network of charging stations and power management systems must be built in a user-friendly setting.
Authors
- Innocent Musonda (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0270-6157)
- Michael Chuba Okika (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3681-4394)
Institutions
- University of Johannesburg (ZA)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Energy Conversion and Management X
- Published
- 2025-05-18
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecmx.2025.101069
- Citations
- 5
- Primary Topic
- Electric Vehicles and Infrastructure
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 3.65