So-called "slow" charging via alternating current is the most common in the depot. The charging time depends on the power of the charging station. A full battery charge usually takes 4 to 6 hours, typically once a day and often overnight. If buses return to the depot, additional recharging can be done during the day. The connection of the charging cable is done manually. The load control solution optimises the electricity consumption (intelligent charging) and ensures that the reserved power consumption in the depot is not exceeded.
Solutions for fast charging of electric buses are being developed. The new charging method consists of a few quick recharges from the depot when the bus is at stops along the route or at the destination station, where it usually waits for some time before starting its return journey. Several manufacturers have come up with a solution to recharge the bus by physical contact with the charging pantograph. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to connect a cable to recharge the bus battery. In addition, these systems make it possible to reduce the weight of the on-board batteries, which in turn makes it possible to produce lighter vehicles that can carry more passengers.
Electricity to recharge the buses can also be generated locally using photovoltaic systems to achieve 100% emission-free transport. Shanghai has launched the first solar power project for a bus station in the PRC. The nearly 2,000 m2 of solar panels provide enough power to recharge 6 buses simultaneously. The system also provides power for other needs of the bus station and even feeds electricity back into the grid.
The future is undoubtedly in renewable green energy, and transport will very quickly become purely electric. Governments around the world are facilitating this transition by supporting subsidy programmes for the purchase of electric vehicles and for the installation of new charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, often using electricity from largely renewable energy sources. The e-mobility revolution is unstoppable. At Greenbuddies Charging we are proud to be an active participant in this change together with our customers and partners!
