As more and more people move into cities, there are notable problems of traffic congestion, pollution, and the efficiency of public transport systems. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) provide value adding components within public transportation systems of smart cities. In this way, the strengths presented by both technologies can be harnessed by cities for better transport that is cleaner, more effective and trustworthy. Let us see how these public transport technologies will help FCEVs and BEVs work towards achieving better public transit.
No Emissions
The other very major merit brought about by appreciative depending on FCEVs and BEVs involves their operation with zero emissions. By adding these vehicles to their fleet, cities have the potential of minimizing air pollution and thus making the urban centers clean. While FCEVs emissions contain only water vapor, BEVs have no exhaust emissions. All these are remedial measures towards the improvement of public transit systems for cleaner public transport which is also desirable in the current global landscape.
More Energy Effective
In comparing FCEVs and BEVs to older gasoline or diesel powered buses or vehicles, it is clear that FCEVs and BEBs use energy more efficiently. FCEVs make the use of hydrogen by converting it into electricity and this is done in a very efficient way, whereas BEV’s make use of electrics stored in batteries. Integration of these technologies into public transit systems can help domestic transport reduce in total energy costs which anyway result in savings for local governments and the tax payers.
Integration of Smart Infrastructure
Technological innovation is the bedrock of every smart city, and it can be extended to public transport as well. FCEVs and BEVs can be fitted with connected technologies that allow vehicles and the infrastructure as well as management systems to share data in real time. This shared knowledge enhances the planning of routes while saving energy and giving information to the passengers about the vehicle and its present position and estimated time of arrival.
Contribution to Energy
Hydrogen can be produced for fuel cell electric vehicles employing renewable energy sources, such as sun or wind, making it clean and green for public transport use. Likewise, BEVs can be plugged to energyelectricity sourced from the region that is green. Using green energy helps such cities in further reducing their emissions and progresses them towards a better public transport system.
Cuts in Costs and New Business Prospects
There may be more risks for some of the fleet owners’ initial investments for FCEV and BEV operation than, for example in traditional fleets; however, these will not weigh down the owners for long because the savings on gas and upkeep for the fleets may turn out to be enormous. Both of these vehicles are more reliable because they have few, if any, moving parts, which means their maintenance is cheaper than gasoline vehicles. Moreover, these changes in modes of transport foster growth of new industries related to electric and hydrogen vehicles, creating demand for their manufacturing, serving and operating spare parts and refuel/charge stations.
Improved Customer Satisfaction
Today’s modern electric and hydrogen vehicles are capable of providing a far smoother and quieter ride than traditional buses in transit. The efficient operation of FCEVs and BEVs increases the satisfaction of the passengers, hence, public transport becomes a better option for the commuters. Real-time tracking of vehicles, mobile route-planning applications, and cushioned seats all add to the satisfaction of the user.
Promoting the Use of Multiple means of transport
FCEV and BEV transport systems can be integrated with other means of transport like bike sharing, electric scooter rides and taxi services. Cities can build a network of transport systems that enhance these networks, enabling the residents to use public transport instead of private vehicles.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles and Battery Electric Vehicles into public transport systems in urban areas is a great avenue in the management of smart cities. This way, cities can optimize their urban transit systems and lower pollution levels with the help of these vehicles. The growth of cities and urban sprawl will create more demand for integration of FCEVs and BEVs within city infrastructures and their transportation systems. These innovations are of course addressing the problems at hand, but also presage a more sustainable and highly interconnected urban space.
