De-carbonizing the transport sector on the university campus: A techno-economic-environment assessment and optimization of PV feed electric bicycles amid global fuel crisis /

Abstract

Like many other countries, Pakistan struggles with its significant reliance on fossil fuels for energy, transportation, and economic growth. This dilemma has led to a growing need for affordable and environmentally sustainable transportation options. This research explores the novel concept of solar PV-powered electric bicycles, which can revolutionize Pakistan's transportation system. Solar-powered electric bicycles, or 'e bikes,' offer a cost-effective and environmentally friendly mode of transportation on university campuses, eliminating the need for fossil fuels. This research project investigates the construction, modification and performance evaluation of the geared DC motors and brushless DC motor used in solar-powered electric bicycle with a gearbox system. Based on research and experiments this study explains which motor is more suitable based on performance evaluation and economic analysis for electric bicycle. The study demonstrates how a conventional cycle can be converted to a solar powered electric bicycle and provide an economical and reliable convert-kit solution. The solar panels with MPPT controller are used to charge the battery, hence relying on renewable energy. Experiment shows that the e-bicycle can carry maximum of 80kg load without compromising average speed and overall efficiency. Moreover, consumer intent and the factors refraining to the adoption of electric bicycles are discussed. It can reduce air pollution, Pakistan's reliance on expensive fossil fuels and encourage the development of more ecological friendly and sustainable modes of transportation.