Impact of electric vehicles on select air pollutants: a comprehensive model

The modeling methodology and sample results of a comprehensive investigation into the impact of electric vehicles (EVs) on the Maricopa County Nonattainment Area is given. The proposed model includes submodels of power plants using simulation techniques to produce unit commitment schedules. Scenario analysis was employed to address the inherent uncertainty involved in modeling rapidly changing technology. Two well-articulated scenarios postulated EV penetration rates, performance characteristics and load requirements. The proposed model provides estimates of the change in pollutant levels. The pollutants examined in this research are: hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter under 10 microns. The value of the research described here lies in the comprehensiveness of the model and the depiction of the sensitivity of the conclusions to the altering of the value of the model inputs