Retrofitted plug-in hybrid vehicles: Results of NYIT drive share program

This paper presents results from a plug-in hybrid vehicle drive share program involving retrofitted hybrid electric vehicles. A potential for high fuel efficiency is indicated, however, the average fuel efficiency was only marginally better than conventional hybrid vehicles. This is due to the majority of vehicle miles traveled occurring on trips outside the “all electric” range and very short trips where fuel consumption is dominated by emissions control strategies. The work also considers the availability of the battery for vehicle to grid services and finds that there are a large number of trips in the afternoon period, typically when electrical demand is at a peak. Vehicle charging activity also tended towards daytime activity, contrary to the oft-assumed off-peak charging pattern.

► Provides results based on the NYIT drive share program investigating retrofitted plug-in hybrid vehicles technologies.
► There are a large number of trips in the afternoon period, typically when electrical demand is at a peak.
► The technology shows potential for increasing the economy of short trips but may be overshadowed by driver behavior.