Masters Degrees (Industrial Engineering)

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Browsing Masters Degrees (Industrial Engineering) by Author "Bakker, Rick"

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    Study into the viability of e-mobility and requirements for the strategic roll out of electric vehicles in South Africa
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012-12) Bakker, Rick; Von Leipzig, Konrad; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Engineering. Dept. of Industrial Engineering.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The electrification of transportation through the introduction of electric vehicles in the South African market can potentially reduce oil dependency and lead to the possible reduction of carbon footprints through lower annual CO2 emission rates. The key question is if the introduction of electric mobility will be financially viable in South Africa and, if so, what business model should be followed. To answer this question cost analysis and total cost of ownership calculations have been modelled based on 8 scenarios. All scenarios consisted of different variables in order to identify the key variables affecting the financial viability of e-­‐mobility. Global market forecasts and governmental incentives and the effect of it on the total cost of ownership have been researched and compared to proposed South African incentives by the DTI. Battery recharging techniques and different battery and vehicle types have been evaluated. Furthermore, the impact on the national grid has been studied, as well as the potential e-­‐mobility value chain and the associated direct job creation. The findings in this thesis illustrate that the introduction of e-­‐mobility can be viable if it is based on a model 2 based business model. Early adopters will preferably use level 2 home charging in the introductory stage. The commencement of demonstration projects is to shed more light on uncertainties and to overcome potential limitations by gathering the desirable data and valuable insights regarding driving and charging preferences and habits. Cost analysis has shown that the biggest aspects affecting the total cost of ownership are initial battery costs, battery price reduction, and vehicle acquisition costs, while operating cost are predominantly relying on the difference between fuel and energy prices. The analysis has shown that governmental incentives don’t significantly affect e-­mobility’s viability.