Analyzing BEV Suitability and Charging Strategies Using Italian Driving Data
Homa Jamalof, Luca Vassio, Danilo Giordano, Marco Mellia, Claudio De Tommasi
TL;DR
This work addresses the challenge of BEV adoption by quantifying the feasibility of replacing ICE vehicles using real-world driving data from the Asti region in Italy. It introduces a multi-scenario simulation framework that replays ICE trips with four BEV models and four charging policies, updating state of charge per trip and evaluating feasible trips, charging frequency, and post-trip SoC. The study finds that full electrification is not universally feasible, but substantial portions of the population can transition under favorable conditions, with up to 72% achieving 100% trip feasibility using large-battery BEVs and optimal charging regimes; overnight charging markedly improves viability, with at least 35% of users able to adopt BEVs in favorable scenarios. The results inform infrastructure and policy planning by highlighting the importance of charging access and vehicle capacity in achieving BEV adoption without forcing changes to daily travel patterns.
Abstract
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are rapidly evolving from a niche alternative to an established option for private transportation, often replacing Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles. Despite growing interest, significant barriers remain, including range anxiety, the inconvenience associated with public charging stations, and higher costs. This study analyses extensive telemetry data collected from 10,441 users using ICE vehicles in an Italian province to assess the potential for switching to BEVs without changing current travel behaviour. We evaluate to what extent the BEV models can fulfil their mobility needs under different charging scenarios. To do so, we replicate trips and parking events, simulating and monitoring the battery state of charge. The analysis reveals the compromises between charging behaviours and limited BEV autonomy. Assuming access to overnight charging, at least 35% of the users could already adopt even low-capacity BEVs.