An Empirical Understanding of Usage for Battery Swapping Electric Taxis in Beijing

Battery Swapping Mode (BSM) has emerged as an effective approach for enhancing the daily driving range of electric vehicles (EVs), particularly in public application scenarios such as taxis and trucks. However, there remains unclear regarding the characteristics of BSM usage patterns and the distinctions compared to the fast-charging method. Thus, the primary objective of this paper is to present empirical evidence derived from real-world operational data. This evidence-based analysis delves into the dynamics of energy refueling behaviors and driving patterns associated with BSM. The insights gained from this study have the potential to inspire local policymakers to understand the real-world operation of the BSM and leverage historical insights to formulate effective developmental strategies.

I. Introduction

Over the past decade, battery swapping mode (BSM) has been proposed to solve the problem of the long charging duration. This is well suited for application to vehicles in the public transportation sector, such as buses and taxis [1]. Notably, more than 20,000 electric taxis (ETs) with BSM, constituting nearly one-third of the total taxi fleet, have been deployed in Beijing by December 2022 [2]. More than 700 Battery Swapping Stations (BSSs) were also established to support the vehicle operation. BSM has gradually assumed a crucial role in the realm of transportation electrification, raising pertinent questions about the operational characteristics it entails. Furthermore, understanding usage characteristics differences between fast-charging and battery swapping also presents an intriguing avenue for further investigation. This will be rewarding for the operation of power distribution networks.