Can the electricity distribution network cope with an influx of electric vehicles?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are a new load for the electricity companies. They are different from other electrical loads in that they are, by their nature, highly mobile and unpredictable. This paper reviews the infrastructure requirements in order to show how the possible expansion of electric vehicle ownership and use will impact on the electricity industry. There are four key factors which will influence the effect of EVs on the network: namely the battery charger itself, the user profile, the electric vehicle; and the existing distribution network and plant. These areas will be discussed in turn within the paper.