Description

This report investigates the transition to zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles (MDHD) within California’s Inland Empire (IE), emphasizing the significance of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and opportunity charging strategies in facilitating sustainable transportation. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach that combines a systematic literature review, geospatial and big data analytics, and thematic analysis of expert interviews, the study explores the multifaceted challenges and opportunities of electrification. The literature review assesses policies at various governance levels, while geospatial analysis identifies regional traffic patterns and infrastructure needs. Big data analytics examine vehicle movements, complemented by insights from interviews with 16 regional experts, offering a real-world perspective on the transition. The findings underscore the critical role of federal, state, and regional policies in supporting the shift towards zero-emission vehicles, highlighting the necessity for collaborative efforts to overcome infrastructural and financial challenges. The analysis reveals distinct operational patterns and infrastructure capacities across the IE’s subregions, suggesting tailored electrification strategies to accommodate diverse needs. The study emphasizes the importance of equitable and economically viable approaches, particularly for small business stakeholders in the electrification process. Conclusively, the transition to MDHD EVs, while promising environmental and public health benefits, requires a nuanced, region-specific strategy that considers economic and infrastructural realities. Recommendations include adopting dynamic, adaptable policies, providing targeted financial incentives, standardizing charging technologies, and ensuring equitable benefits distribution. This comprehensive approach aims to balance technological advancements with supportive policies and equitable practices, facilitating a socially responsible and inclusive transition to sustainable transportation.

Publication Date

8-2024

Publication Type

Report

Topic

Transportation Technology

Digital Object Identifier

10.31979/mti.2024.2305.1

MTI Project

2305.1

Keywords

Medium- and Heavy-Duty vehicles, EV charging, Equity, Policy analysis, Business models, Opportunity charging

Disciplines

Energy Policy | Environmental Policy | Geological Engineering | Infrastructure | Mechanical Engineering | Transportation

Additional Files
2305.1-RB-Collins-EV-Heavy-Duty-Equity-Policy-Analysis.pdf (708 kB)
Research Brief
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