Design of a docking station for solar charged electric and fuel cell vehicles

An effect of constant increase in the price of hydrocarbon-based fuels and the resulting pollution of environment have motivated researchers and the automobile industry to take a serious look at electric vehicles (EV). Hybrid technologies have also found their place in the automobile industry. Hybrid Electric and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles are being developed and improved constantly. An electric vehicle plugged in a docking station that stores energy from a solar panel array is probably the best way to charge a short-distance commuter EV rather than connecting it to the grid. Production of hydrogen by electrolysis of water and subsequent use through fuel cells is another possibility of using solar energy. A docking station consisting of solar panel array, DC-to-DC converter and batteries was designed. Compatibility with hydrogen electrolyzer was considered with emphasis on efficiency. Two separate tracks for plug-in vehicle were followed: a) Electric Energy Conversion; and, b) Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell. Range of the vehicle, charging rate and initial cost of the two separate tracks were calculated so that a direct comparison could be presented. Short distance commuters are the primary requirements for daily transportation of most individuals. Considering an average traveled distance of 10 miles per/day at an average speed of 30 miles/hour, these vehicles and docking stations could be used in most of the North American urban areas.