Potential Analysis of a Novel Disposition Approach for Mixed-Electrified Truck Fleets Using Bidirectional Charging for Vehicle-to-Grid Integration

Global greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced to meet the targets of the Paris Climate Accords. This study quantifies the potential energy cost savings of a holistic disposition approach for mixed-electrified heavy-duty truck fleets. Electrifying heavy-duty trucks reduces energy costs compared to traditional diesel-powered baselines. On-site energy generation further decreases electrification expenses. Bidirectional vehicle-to-grid participation also contributes to lowering energy costs. A mixed-integer linear programming optimization algorithm has been developed to incorporate these three approaches into the fleet’s disposition decisions. Real-world data have been utilized, including commercial order datasets, diesel prices, on-site-generated electrical energy prices, and vehicle-to-grid prices. Cost savings start at an average of 17% for small fleets with limited electrification and unfavorable price scenarios. However, they can reach net revenue generation for large fleets with high electrification and favorable price scenarios. A daily surplus of fleet energy costs can be achieved, with vehicle-to-grid revenues surpassing the costs of energy consumed. Ensuring battery electric heavy-duty trucks are available during high-revenue periods and operating during low-revenue times can lower overall fleet energy costs for commercial operators and improve power grid stability. By turning energy costs into net surpluses, this approach provides a financial incentive that could accelerate the transition to greenhouse-gas-neutral transport.