Mobility on Demand and Automated Driving Systems: A Framework for Public-Sector Assessment (2022)

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37 REPORT CHAPTER 5: ELECTRIFICATION ELECTRIFICATION SECTION OVERVIEW This section discusses electrification and answers key questions including: • What is electrification? • How are shared vehicle fleets electrifying? • How are shared micromobility fleets electrifying? • How can mobility hubs support electrification? WHAT IS ELECTRIFICATION? The increasing number and variety of transportation modes including those that make up shared mobility and MOD can lead to an increase in transportation-related emissions. In many parts of the world, transportation remains the largest source of GHG emissions. The development of electric propulsion presents an opportunity to decarbonize the transportation network. These macro trends are contributing to the deployment of EVs and electric devices (e.g., electric scooters, electric bikes [e-bikes]). These vehicles and devices use one or more electric or traction motors instead of diesel- or gasoline-powered internal combustion engines. EVs that are charged exclusively with clean or renewable energy sources, rather than fossil fuels, are referred to as zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). EVs and ZEVs can help reduce GHGs and other transportation- related emissions. In addition to lower pollution rates, decreasing maintenance requirements are contributing to increased investment in, improved performance (e.g., increased range and reduced charge times) of, and growing popularity of EVs. The increasing electrification of the transportation industry is evidence by changes including: • Shared fleet electrification: Electrification of a fleet of vehicles used for carsharing and TNCs, • Shared micromobility electrification: Electrification of devices (e.g., bikes, scooters) in shared mobility fleets, and • Electric shared mobility hubs: Provision of supportive electric infrastructure at mobility hubs. The following subsections describe the electrification of shared fleets, micromobility, and mobility hubs. HOW ARE SHARED VEHICLE FLEETS ELECTRIFYING? Electrifying fleets of vehicles used for different transportation services can help expand access to affordable, clean transportation options for travelers. In addition to increased access, fleets of EVs can reduce transportation costs and decrease transportation-related emissions. Fleets of EVs can also support increased awareness of and access to EVs and their necessary charging infrastructure. However, electrifying fleets may be challenged by high vehicle costs, a lack of awareness of EVs, and a lack of charging infrastructure. The lack of consistently available

38 REPORT charging infrastructure can limit the ability of mobility operators to electrify their fleets and may result in “range anxiety” (concern that a vehicle does not have a sufficient battery life to reach the final destination) among users. Carsharing Fleet Electrification Electric vehicle (EV) carsharing has the potential to reduce vehicle and GHG emissions, particularly if charged by a clean power grid. However, operating an EV carsharing program can present a number of unique challenges that may make it more difficult to manage than a carsharing fleet comprised of conventional vehicles. Common logistical challenges can include: • Reduced driving ranges: EV drivers may not be able to reach further distances due to battery charge limitations. • Increased vehicle downtime: EVs may not be able to be used as frequently or for as long of a period of time as conventional vehicles due to necessary charge times. • Limited charging infrastructure: Lack of available EV charging infrastructure may limit the areas drivers and passengers can travel to. For these reasons, while EV carsharing tends to be more sustainable, it also can present notable operational challenges. Communities can support the electrification of carsharing fleets through partnerships between public agencies and private carsharing providers. These partnerships can follow best practices including: • Creating a pooled fund to offset the cost of EVs for low-income households, • Applying public transit subsidies to carsharing services, • Forming partnerships between a variety of stakeholders (e.g., property managers, carsharing operators, utility companies) to reduce administrative and financial costs of charging infrastructure, • Considering carsharing provider’s experience with offering service for vulnerable populations (e.g., low-income households, older adults) as a key characteristic, and • Considering strategies specifically for rural communities (e.g., EV vanpooling/carpooling). Source: Espino and Truong, 2015 TNC Fleet Electrification Similar to electrifying carsharing fleets, strategies can be implemented to support the electrification of TNC fleets. Electrifying TNC fleets face several notable challenges including: • Range anxiety: Concern that a vehicle does not have a sufficient battery life to reach the final destination; • Exceeding available range: Range limitations resulting from battery charge restraints; • Increased driver downtime: Periods of time where drivers must wait for EVs to charge, rather than operate them; • Lack of reliable infrastructure: Lack of consistent charging infrastructure to allow vehicles to charge in different areas; and • Driver safety concerns: Concerns when drivers are charging vehicles in unfamiliar areas.

39 REPORT Electrifying TNC fleets could result in offsetting carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere and improve local air quality. Uber has experimented with a variety of programs to support electrification with the goal of delivering five million electric rides by the end of 2019, although it is unclear if this goal was achieved. Uber has also developed an EV Champions Initiative (a program that offers cash incentives and in-app features to encourage drivers to use EVs) in partnership with organizations such as Forth in Portland (an EV showcase) to raise awareness and provide resources to help drivers learn more about the benefits of EVs. These efforts are active in seven cities—Austin, Texas; Los Angeles, California; Montreal, Quebec; Sacramento, California; San Diego, California; San Francisco, California; and Seattle, Washington. In addition to programs that target TNC drivers, providing EV fleets through carsharing and car rental organizations to TNC drivers is another strategy for electrifying TNCs. Lyft has also added EV offerings to their Express Drive car rental service (a program where drivers can rent vehicles for personal and professional use) in both Atlanta, Georgia and Seattle, Washington. Lyft has a goal of delivering one billion electric rides by 2025 (Atlas Public Policy, 2019). Stakeholders including utility companies, local agencies, and state agencies, can be key players in the electrification of carsharing and TNC fleets. Utility companies can help provide the necessary charging infrastructure and electricity required by EVs. Local agencies can support EVs through supportive policies that encourage businesses and individuals to use EVs. State agencies can support electrification by developing policies that guide EV programs. Table 7, Table 8, and Table 9 list strategies to support electrifying TNCs for utility companies, local agencies, and state agencies, respectively. Table 7. Utility Strategies to Support Electrifying TNCs Strategy Description Dedicated Direct Charging (DC) Fast Chargers Invest in DC fast charging for TNC fleets Place DC fast chargers in optimal locations to reduce deadheading8, increase infrastructure sharing, and complement public transit EV or DC Fast Charger Incentives Offer incentives (e.g., lower purchasing costs) for EVs in TNC fleets Offer incentives (e.g., bulk pricing) for DC fast charging infrastructure for EVs in TNC fleets Informational Materials and Tools Provide information to TNC drivers to increase understanding of EV models, existing incentives, and charging options Offer a cost of ownership tool specific to TNC drivers and EVs in TNC fleets Preferential Use Rates Offer lower cost of charging rates for EVs in TNC fleets Provide a special rate plan for EV charging Alter tax structures to decrease or eliminate demand charges Source: Shaheen et al., 2019 8 Deadheading refers to a shared vehicle (e.g., TNC, public transit bus) operating without a passenger.

40 REPORT Table 8. Local Strategies to Support Electrifying TNCs Strategy Description Action Plan Incorporate TNC-specific strategies into local plans to address and overcome adoption barriers (e.g., lack of vehicle charging infrastructure) Building Codes Include considerations for EVs (e.g., reserved parking spaces) in building codes Best Practices Through partnerships and discussions with experts identify strategies to overcome barriers, optimal charging locations, and cost-sharing structures for EV deployment Lane Access Allow select EVs (e.g., EVs in TNC fleets) to access restricted lanes (e.g., bus-only lanes) Licensing Caps Implement vehicle licensing caps for TNC fleets that allow for more EVs than gas-powered vehicles Low-Emission Areas Identify areas that can only be accessed by shared EVs Partnerships Partner with TNCs and other mobility providers to identify areas where EVs can be used to enhance public transit (e.g., offer first- and last-mile connections) Require TNC fleets to meet a minimum proportion of EVs to fleet size to be considered for partnerships Permitting Streamline permitting of charging infrastructure development to expedite installation Pricing Schemes Implement or adapt existing pricing structures (e.g., price per mile, tolls) that are proportionate to vehicle emissions and exempt EVs Rights-of-Way Reallocate public rights-of-way designations for EV charging infrastructure and parking Source: Shaheen et al., 2019 Table 9. State-Level Policies to Support Electrifying TNCs Strategy Description Data Collection Require data collection, monitoring, validation, and public sharing of VMT by EVs in TNC fleets Financial Incentives Use incentives including point-of-sale rebates, tax exemptions, or supportive financing to reduce the purchasing costs of AVs Offer financial incentives to vehicle fleets that can demonstrate high annual electric VMT Fleet Regulations Implement ZEV requirements for commercial fleets Implement CO2 regulations to reduce emissions, incentivize electrification, and increase the percentage of shared rides Promote Public Chargers Offer tax exemptions to reduce the costs of installing charging infrastructure Allow local governments to implement pricing schemes with EV incentives Source: Shaheen et al., 2019 Equity and Charging Infrastructure for Shared Fleets As shared fleets are increasingly electrified, equity considerations can play an important role in ensuring greater access. EVs can be inaccessible for certain populations for various reasons including capital costs, ownership costs, and lack of charging infrastructure. Shared fleets,

41 REPORT whether through community organizations or companies, can decrease capital and ownership costs and make EVs more financially accessible. In addition, the strategic placement of charging infrastructure can support widespread EV ownership. Charging infrastructure for shared fleets can be placed at multi-family residences (e.g., apartment complexes) and/or in low-income communities. By placing charging infrastructure in these areas, EVs can be more accessible to greater numbers and a wider range of people. For example, BlueLA, a carsharing service in Los Angeles, California, has partnered with the Los Angeles DOT (LADOT) to provide shared EVs throughout the city. The fleet of EVs consists of 100 vehicles that are accessible 24 hours a day seven days a week from 35 different charging stations located throughout the city including in low-income neighborhoods. An annual membership costs $60 a year, and EV use costs $0.20 a minute. For low-income users, an annual membership costs $12 a year, and EV use costs $0.15 a minute. To make BlueLA more financially accessible, members do not have to pay for insurance, maintenance, and gas/electric fees (BlueLA, 2020). HOW ARE SHARED MICROMOBILITY FLEETS ELECTRIFYING? Similar to the electrification of shared vehicle fleets, bikesharing and scooter sharing services are increasingly including electric devices (e.g., e-bikes, electric scooters) in their fleets. Electric devices can help reduce transportation-related emissions by expanding the range of active transportation modes (e.g., riding an e-bike three miles rather than biking or walking one mile). By expanding the range of micromobility devices, electric devices can also increase mobility for certain demographics, such as older adults and people with disabilities. Additionally, shared micromobility service models where devices are picked up from and dropped off to charging stations can reduce emissions by not requiring drivers to collect, charge, and replace devices. For example, in Tel Aviv, Israel, the micromobility company Bird has implemented three charging stations for its scooter sharing service. The charging stations can accommodate six to eight scooters and can reduce the number of workers needed to collect and charge the devices (Raz- Chaimovich, 2019). In addition to potentially reducing emissions, electric micromobility devices can provide a better rider experience, particularly in areas with inclines. For example, in February 2019, due to the popularity of Lime’s e-bikes in Seattle, Washington (where some streets have up to a 19 percent incline), Lime decided to make the entire fleet of Lime bikes in Seattle electric (Brady, 2019). In Spring 2020, the company will be introducing a fleet entirely of e-bikes and electric scooters (Halverson, 2019). Electrifying shared micromobility fleets can be supported by public agencies partnering with private operators to deploy pilot programs and expand electric charging infrastructure. In addition to existing charging infrastructure for shared micromobility, companies are currently working on developing shared micromobility parking stations that also offer charging capabilities. These stations can be adapted to suit docked and dockless fleets and may be plug-in or solar-powered. For example, the New York-based company Charge has developed charging stations for standing electric scooters that could be located in a variety of locations (e.g., parking lots, garages, gas stations, off-street locations). Charge has secured more than 6,000 locations across the US and Europe to place its micromobility charging infrastructure (Mass Transit,

42 REPORT 2019). Shared micromobility users can locate docking stations and check their availability and device charge levels though the Charge app (Shaheen et al., 2019). HOW CAN SHARED MOBILITY HUBS SUPPORT ELECTRIFICATION? Mobility hubs can also offer supportive infrastructure for EVs, ZEVs, and electric devices. Transportation services, traveler information, last-mile delivery services, and other transportation amenities can be co-located and aggregated to create mobility hubs. Mobility hubs are typically located at major public transit transportation hubs, park-and-ride facilities, or other locations where frequent transportation services converge. Mobility hubs may also be public transit oriented and be developed in conjunction with different amenities (e.g., retail spaces) to create walkable destinations. This can allow for convenient connections between different mobility options and other services. The placement of mobility hubs with other transportation services can create a network effect that enhances the effectiveness of a variety of different transportation modes. In addition, mobility hubs can support and facilitate a seamless, multimodal trip. Figure 10 illustrates different mobility areas, with a mobility hub at the core, and how transportation services can be connected to support multimodal trips.

43 REPORT Figure 10. Mobility Areas Source: Booz Allen Hamilton, 2020; NCHRP, 2020 Mobility areas illustrated in Figure 10 are generally characterized as: • Core: This area is typically anchored by a public transit station, government center, or destination, and these services may be co-located to create a mobility hub. • Zone: The next ring is typically comprised of brief loading services, such as carsharing and shared micromobility. • Catchment area: The outermost ring is comprised of motorized services beyond the typical catchment area for active transportation and micromobility modes, common services to extend the catchment area typically include public transportation, taxis, TNCs, and SAVs. For mobility hubs located at the core, the Broward MPO in Florida developed a typology of mobility hubs including: • Gateway hubs: Have a high number of boardings and disembarkings, are surrounded by high-density mixed-use areas, and serve at least two high capacity transit lines;

44 REPORT • Anchor hubs: Have a moderate to high number of boardings and disembarkings, are surrounded by employment centers and major institutions, and serve at least one high capacity transit line; and • Community hubs: Serve more local trips than regional trips and serve local bus routes. Source: Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization, 2018 These different types of mobility hubs can house a variety of features including: • Station design: Art and architecture, waiting areas, retailers, and aesthetic fit; • Station access: Resource access, accessibility, walkability, rideability, bikeability, flexible curb management, and smart parking; • Shared mobility: Shared micromobility, charging stations, carsharing, carpooling, EVs, for-hire services, and microtransit; and • Other services: Service frequency, real-time information, integrated fare payment, and public transportation. Mobility hubs can be a key location to offer charging infrastructure. Placing safe and reliable charging infrastructure at mobility hubs can support the electrification of vehicle and shared micromobility fleets. Supporting electric fleets can further emission reductions from and the adoption of electric mobility options. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Electrification refers to design changes that allow electric traction motors to power vehicles and devices (e.g., scooters) that traditionally rely on gas- and diesel-powered motors. • Shared vehicle services, including carsharing services and TNCs, are incorporating more EVs in their fleets. • Shared micromobility fleets are also starting to include more electric device options. • Mobility hubs can support electrification by providing charging infrastructure.