As of October 1, 2016, the SWUTC concluded its 28 years of operation and is no longer an active center of the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. The archived SWUTC website remains available here.

600451-00064

SWUTC Research Project Description

Local Infrastructure to Support the Widespread Use of Hybrid-Electric Vehicles: What Programs and Public Policies are Likely to Work to Promote Environmental Sustainability and Livable Communities

University:  University of Texas at Austin

Principal Investigator:
Leigh Boske
LBJ School of Public Affairs
(512) 232-3005

Project Monitor:
Dr. Charles Cooke
Deputy Director of the Energy Institute
University of Texas at Austin
2304 Whitis Ave. Stop C2400
Austin, Texas 78713-8925

Funding Source:  USDOT and State of Texas General Revenue Funds

Total Project Cost: $64,285

Project Number:  600451-00064

Date Started: 5/1/12

Estimated Completion Date:  6/30/13

Project Summary

Project Abstract:
Current experimentation with both hybrid and all-electric vehicles (passenger cars, buses, light delivery trucks) is taking place within several metropolitan areas. The deployment of new battery technologies, network routing systems, methods of recharging, and repair shops will be evaluated to ascertain which hold the greatest promise for reducing greenhose gas emissions and fossil-fuel consumption.

Project Objectives:
This study will seek to identify the most-promising role(s) that EV’s may play in the future U.S. transportation system.

Task Descriptions:

Task 1: Describe history is Electric Vehicles

Task 2: Describe transport fuel-consumption patterns & alternatives to conventional vehicles

Task 3: Examine electric vehicles in terms of costs, emissions, and consumer preferences

Task 4: Provide overview of Electric Vehicle charging stations and barriers to adoption

Task 5: Detail state and local policies relating to Electric Vehicles

Task 6: Conduct case studies of Electric Vehicles, focusing on Texas


Implementation of Research Outcomes:
Results from this research help inform transportation planners on the public policy tools available to address air quality concerns.

Results also have important implications for additional research on energy efficiency and environmental policies to reduce negative externalities associated with conventional vehicle emissions.

Impacts/Benefits of Implementation:
Variety of state-level incentives discussed by this research are designed to influence consumer behavior with respect to decisions to purchase more fuel efficient and environmentally sound vehicles, especially for urban travel.

Web Links:
Full Technical Report