This case study explores the potential demand for EV charging station (CS) infrastructure as well as its difficulties in the context of Mumbai. With a surge in privatization, liberalization, and the expansion of distributed and renewable energy sources. Finding charging stations for electric vehicles is a significant problem for drivers that calls for the development of a network of smart charging infrastructure. To ensure EV adoption and to address some of the inherent risks, such as battery cost and degradation, economic risks, lack of charging infrastructure, risky maintenance of EVs, problems with its integration in the smart grid, range anxiety, auxiliary loads, and motorist attitude, it is crucial to choose the location for installing charging stations.
The fastest growing and the most advanced Education and IT centre in recent time. Mumbai is the first largest metropolitan city in India. The major capital establishment in India is from the education sector, manufacturing section and the Information sector (IT). The megacity needs to be mega planned and cost-effective manner. The megacity plans are published. The municipal corporation of Mumbai is planning to develop a smart connect structure for public transport and private transport. Mumbai is a well planned and well-structured city. Need to develop the EV segment infrastructure for Mumbai. The mobile app and the charging station tracking system are in Mumbai.
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
In an electric vehicle, there are different multiple players involved that can bring the change in the assiduity. Presently, government programs have a major part in the Indian electric vehicle industry. Non-availability of the charging stations in the Mumbai corporation area. It will improve the distance range and help people to charge their vehicles in very less time. On average, 4 wheelers electric vehicles need 4-5 hr. to charge full and with the help of the advanced charging stations and the chargers, it will require 30-45 min with the help of the charging slot booking application consumer reduces the waiting time. The construction of the cost of the charging station.
Algorithm for charging station slot booking
The charging station selection traces the live location of the vehicle and taps the range available with it. It covers the limits of the charging stations. And also, it communicates with the other devices that update the traffic and finds the shortest and traffic-less path. With the help of it, drivers can book the charging slot in the advance to avoid the traffic and waiting time.
Charging Infrastructure
At present Mumbai needs to provide additional charging infrastructure to boost the adoption of Electric vehicle by Mumbai customers. The lack of charging stations in the Mumbai will put customers under anxiety, as the vehicle driving range is not sufficient as per the requirement and the vehicle may not run long distance without charging stations at frequently intervals on the road ways.
Charging Levels
Layout of EV Charging Stations-
As of last update in 2023, several companies in India were providing EV charging stations using both private and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) formats. However, it's important to note that the EV charging infrastructure landscape is continuously evolving, and new companies may have entered the market since then. Here are some prominent companies that were involved in offering EV charging solutions in India.
INCENTIVES PROVIDED BY MAHARASHTRA GOVERNMENT.
Capital Subsidy:
The Maharashtra government offered capital subsidies to private entities, individuals, and businesses for setting up EV charging stations. The subsidy amount varied depending on the type and capacity of the charging station.
Electricity Tariff Incentives:
Electricity tariffs for EV charging stations were set at lower rates to make the operation of charging stations more cost-effective for operators. These reduced tariffs aimed to attract more investment in the EV charging infrastructure sector.
Land Allocation:
In some cases, the Maharashtra government allocated land at subsidized rates for the installation of public EV charging stations. This measure was aimed at making it easier for private companies and entrepreneurs to find suitable locations for charging infrastructure.
Support for PPP Projects:
The government supported Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects for the deployment of EV charging stations in the state. These partnerships helped leverage private sector expertise and resources while aligning with the government's vision of promoting sustainable mobility.
Green Building Incentives:
For commercial and residential complexes that incorporated EV charging infrastructure as part of their green building initiatives, the government provided additional incentive and benefits.
Waiver of Permit Fees:
The Maharashtra government waived or reduced permit fees for the installation of EV charging stations to simplify the process for private entities and reduce upfront costs.
Fast-Track Approvals:
To streamline the approval process, the government established a fast-track mechanism for granting licenses and permits for EV charging station installations.
Public-Private Collaboration for Infrastructure Development:
The Maharashtra government actively collaborated with private companies and electric utilities to develop a robust and widespread EV charging network across the state.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the analysis of the current inadequacies in charging infrastructure for electric two-wheelers in Mumbai and Thane, the following suggestions are made to multiple stakeholders to improve charging infrastructure and accessibility. These recommendations are crucial if the metro city aims to successfully transition to green electric vehicles (EVs):
Government and Policy Makers
Municipal Corporations
Citizens and EV Users
Participating in feedback mechanisms to report issues and suggest improvements for existing charging infrastructure.
Demand for more charging stations in residential areas and public places through community groups and local governance meetings.
SCOPE OF STUDY
Based on the results of the current study focusing on the charging infrastructure and accessibility for electric two-wheelers in Mumbai and Thane, several avenues for further research can be explored, such as a longitudinal study to assess the long-term impact of the implemented strategies and interventions aimed at improving charging infrastructure. This study could track changes in EV adoption rates, charging station usage patterns, and overall environmental outcomes over an extended period. User Satisfaction levels and overall experience of electric two wheeler users with the charging infrastructure can be investigated. This research could delve deeper into factors influencing user satisfaction, such as charging station reliability, waiting times, ease of use, and payment methods.
Exploring emerging technologies and innovations in EV charging infrastructure, such as fast-charging solutions, wireless charging, and smart grid integration. Assess the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing these technologies to enhance charging accessibility and efficiency, is another possibility. These further studies would contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities surrounding EV charging infrastructure and support ongoing efforts to promote sustainable urban mobility.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The researchers express their sincere gratitude to the 2-wheeler EV users, 2 wheeler EV retailers, and charging port assistants for their valuable contributions to this research study.