The feasibility of fast charging in Dutch cities

Abstract

The introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, fossil fuel depletion and urban air pollution. The exponential growth of the EV market requires a significant expansion of the public charging infrastructure. This causes challenges especially in cities in terms of parking pressure, grid reinforcements and investment costs. There are two charging technologies for electric vehicles: normal charging and fast charging. Fast charging technology is developing rapidly, with charging speeds that allow a full charge in fifteen minutes in 2020. Local governments however, currently mainly support and subsidise normal charging.  
Currently, there is no scientific study that combines the technical, economical, social and political perspectives to evaluate the feasibility of fast charging. This research determines the current and future feasibility of fast charging in Dutch cities. An exploratory case study of the major Dutch cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht is performed. The political economy theory on transport innovations by Feitelson and Salomon is used as the theoretical perspective. From the research it is concluded that fast charging is increasingly feasible as a charging solution in Dutch cities. Currently, there is a focus on normal charging in cities caused by the current EVs and charging technology. The developments sparked by larger batteries and faster charging however increase the feasibility of fast charging. As EV adoption accelerates, a more hybrid mix of normal and fast charging solutions is needed in crowded cities to accommodate the charging needs. The increasing industry interest, consumer attitude and high charging capacity make fast charging an important factor in the future public charging infrastructure.