The incorporation of flywheel energy storage systems (FESS) into automotive vehicles has been under consideration for some time. Previous studies have suggested that FESS can yield substantial benefits in automotive vehicle operation, particularly for urban driving. This study describes a preliminary assessment of the impacts resulting from incorporation of FESS into automotive fleets in a large metropolitan city. Specifically, the case of taxicab fleet operation within New York City is examined. Unique features of taxicab fleets and taxicab operational characteristics within New York City are described. A levelized life-cycle cost comparison between a standard internal combustion engine vehicle (ICEV) in present use as a taxicab in NY and a projected FESS/ICEV taxicab has been generated. Potential energy-savings and environmental benefits are discussed, and potential institutional barriers to FESS implementation are identified. The levelized life-cycle cost comparison suggests that: FESS/ICEV costs are 3.3 cent/paid mile less than that of the ICEV; the capital costs represent a small fraction of the total and are less than fuel costs in both categories; and the cost of driving and dispatch is the major cost in both categories. Sensitivity studies performed on several parameters emphasize the value of FESS in taxicab operation in New York City. An assumed 50% increase in fuel economy (miles/gallon) translates to a 33.3% savings in fuel purchase for the same annual accumulated mileage by New York City licensed taxicabs. For approx. 12,000 vehicles at $1.20/gallon, annual savings amount to approx. $30 x 10 exp 6 (approx. 25 x 10 exp 6 gallons). Environmental improvement in the form of reduction emissions is to be expected with the introduction of FESS/ICEV taxicabs. (ERA citation 06:014376)


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    Title :

    Preliminary Assessment of the Impact of Flywheel Energy Storage Technology on Taxicab Fleet Operation in a Large Metropolitan City


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1981


    Size :

    61 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English





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