Electronics 13 02259 v2
Electronics 13 02259 v2
Review
An Overview of Electric Vehicle Load Modeling Strategies for
Grid Integration Studies
Anny Huaman-Rivera , Ricardo Calloquispe-Huallpa , Adriana C. Luna Hernandez * and Agustin Irizarry-Rivera
Abstract: The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has emerged as a solution to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions in the transportation sector, which has motivated the implementation of public policies
to promote their use in several countries. However, the high adoption of EVs poses challenges for
the electricity sector, as it would imply an increase in energy demand and possible impacts on the
power quality (PQ) of the power grid. Therefore, it is important to conduct EV integration studies
in the power grid to determine the amount that can be incorporated without causing problems and
identify the areas of the power sector that will require reinforcements. Accurate EV load patterns
are required for this type of study that, through mathematical modeling, reflect both the dynamic
behavior and the factors that influence the decision to recharge EVs. This article aims to present an
overview of EVs, examine the different factors considered in the literature for modeling EV load
patterns, and review modeling methods. EV load modeling methods are classified into deterministic,
statistical, and machine learning. The article shows that each modeling method has its advantages,
disadvantages, and data requirements, ranging from simple load modeling to more accurate models
requiring large datasets.
technology, grid voltage level, charging time and schedule, location of charging stations,
battery state of charge, and driving habits [7]. For example, Ref. [8] analyzes the effect
of EV state of charge on harmonic distortion during the charging process. It was found
that the total harmonic distortion (THD) increases as the EV battery approaches 100%
charge. On the other hand, in [6] they identified that the increased penetration of EVs
at the distribution level in Bangladesh is related to the occurrence of harmonics, voltage
fluctuations, and power losses.
Several studies have combined EV-related factors to establish EV load patterns. This
makes it possible to analyze how the incorporation of EVs into the electric grid can influence
PQ. As an example, in [9], the PQ issues posed by EV charging are studied. During the
analysis, the authors recreate EV load patterns over a day, taking into account factors such as
load current level, harmonic distortion caused by the load, and temperatures in winter and
summer. When comparing the load patterns, a large difference is observed due to the factors
considered. Similarly, in [10] they present load patterns for a commercial, residential, and
public area, showing how the habits of the inhabitants determine these patterns. To identify
and search for solutions to PQ problems, the literature proposes the analysis of the hosting
capacity (HC) of electric vehicles (EVs). HC is generally defined as the amount of new
load or generation that can be connected on a feeder without jeopardizing the reliability or
PQ of the power system [11]. The research conducted in [12,13] presents a comprehensive
review of the various methods for analyzing EV hosting capacity. A methodology for
evaluating EV hosting capacity in a 123-node IEEE system, taking into account EV load
patterns in commercial, residential, and public locations, is shown in [10]. The hosting
capacity study helps elucidate the problems that may arise due to the increase in EV
penetration and proposes solutions based on this. The literature considers solutions ranging
from grid reconfiguration, use of renewable resources such as photovoltaic and wind
systems, and improved EV chargers. For example, in [14], it is proposed to optimize feeder
reconfiguration by using genetic algorithms (GAs) to maximize EV hosting capacity.
In order to carry out all the studies mentioned above, it is essential to understand
and have EV load patterns. As it is known, EVs have a dynamic behavior, influenced by
various factors that determine when an EV is charged. In addition, the driving patterns,
the uncertainty as to the time and place of charging, and the total energy demand of EVs
in a given area are constantly developing in a random manner [15]. Figure 1 shows this
random behavior of EVs interacting with the power grid. To address these problems,
current EV research focuses on model-based impact analyses of load patterns and control
strategies. Therefore, the development of mathematical modeling of EV load patterns
becomes a key aspect that will allow scientists to conduct more realistic studies to forecast
energy demand and propose solutions to problems that may arise [5]. Various methods
for modeling EV charging demand are proposed in the literature, and each of them has
individual characteristics.
For instance, in [16] a modeling approach based on Markov chains and probability
distributions is used with historical vehicle charging data. On the other hand, in [17] they
investigate the performance of static and dynamic charging models used in electrical system
studies for EV load modeling. The results show that static modeling adequately represents
the steady-state load of EVs, while dynamic modeling fails to adequately capture their
behavior in the presence of disturbances. In [18], they investigate how EV charging demand
affects the power grid and examine the factors influencing this demand, considering EV
charging models through the Monte Carlo method, using the 2009 U.S. National Travel
Survey as a database. However, the authors in [5] combine artificial neural networks,
recurrent neural networks, and short- and long-term memories to model EV loads, using a
dataset from a total of 20,562 random transactions at a charging station. Accordingly, each
method requires varied initial data, where different factors can be considered and classified
according to criteria, such as the temporal/spatial dimension or the nature of the input
data, as discussed in [15,19].
Electronics 2024, 13, 2259 3 of 23
Power generation
and transmission
Urban area
EV
Charging stations
Office area
P
Commercial area
EV Charging Center
In this overview, data influencing the modeling of EV load patterns are addressed.
Then, existing EV load modeling methods are reviewed and classified into three main
groups: deterministic, statistical, and machine learning techniques. The rest of the paper is
organized as follows: Section 2 contextualizes EVs, while Section 3 presents the different
input factors used for EV load modeling, and Section 4 classifies, describes, and compares
the different EV load modeling methods. Finally, Section 6 presents the conclusions.
2. Background on EVs
The history of EVs dates to the 19th century, when the first electric automobiles
prototypes emerged thanks to Robert Anderson [3]. However, their use and development
declined with the growing popularity of vehicles powered by ICEs. For much of the 20th
century, EVs were relegated to limited roles, such as golf carts and delivery vehicles [20].
However, in 2010 Nissan Leaf, the first mass-produced electric car, was launched. Tesla,
founded in the same period, marked a major milestone in electric mobility, launching its
Roadster and Model S models, backed by a network of superchargers [3]. Today, EVs have
become an increasingly popular alternative to conventional vehicles, driven by the need to
reduce pollution and lower acquisition costs.
There are four types of EVs on the market, as shown in Figure 2, although only two
of them require a connection to the electric grid for operation. Hybrid electric vehicles
(HEVs) are configured with a combination of an ICE, a battery, and an electric motor [2].
The battery of this type of vehicle is charged by regenerative braking so it does not require
charging. For this reason, these types of vehicles do not generate any negative impact on
the electrical grid [21].
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) have an ICE, a battery, and an electric motor
similar to HEVs. The batteries can be charged in the same way as HEVs or from an external
source [22]. This type of EV usually has a smaller battery, so its impact and ability to
provide grid services is limited [23]. However, higher penetration levels of PHEV charging
may result in PQ impacts.
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are fully electric vehicles and have no ICE; they are
propelled by one or more electric motors powered by a series of batteries [21]. The range of
BEVs depends on the capacity of their batteries. Additionally, they can be charged during
EV deceleration and braking [24]. These types of EVs have the largest battery capacity and
their charging can have severe negative impacts on the electrical system. However, their
ability to provide services to the electrical grid is greater than other EVs [25].
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Battery Eletric Vehicles Plug-in Hybrid Eletric Vehicles Hybrid Electric Vehicle Full Cell Electric Vehicle
(BEV) (PHEV) (HEV) (FCEV)
ICE ICE
Regenerative Regenerative Regenerative Regenerative
Breking Breking Breking Breking
Hidrogen Fuel
Fuel Tank Oil Oil Fuel Tank H
tank cell
Figure 2. Basic schemes of different types of EVs (modified from [3,21]). Internal combustion
engine (ICE).
Fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), on the other hand, use hydrogen as fuel. In it,
the hydrogen releases electrons that circulate through fuel cells, thus providing energy
to the engines [2]. This type of EV will not impact the electrical system since it does not
require recharge from the distribution system [21].
PHEVs and BEVs require electric chargers to charge their batteries. Chargers consist
of an AC/DC converter, power factor correction elements, and a DC/DC converter [26].
The most common standard for EV charger classification is the SAE J1772 [27] system,
which defines three charging levels for both AC and DC, levels I, II, and III, as shown in
Table 1. Each of them has different power levels and charging times, making them suitable
for different situations and user needs [28,29].
Type of Charge Supplied Voltage Range Output Power Level Estimated Charge Time
AC Level I 120 V <1.92 kW 7–17 h
AC Level II 208–240 V <19.2 kW 0.4–7 h
AC Level III 208–240 V <96 kW <0.5 h
DC Level I 200–450 V <36 kW 0.4–1.2 h
DC Level II 200–450 V <90 kW 0.2–0.4 h
DC Level III 200–600 V <240 kW 0.1–0.2 h
The current ratings of all DC charge levels and AC level III are very high (greater than
80 A). Therefore, the current cannot be supplied by the distribution grid. This charging
level is mostly used for public charging stations. AC level I and II charging stations are
suitable for residential applications [24].
Direct factor
Battery
character(capacity, Arrival/Departure
initial SoC) time Inter-arrival time
Indirect factor
Attractive factors
Charging station (subsidy policy, emission
reduction, price of CV, fuel price, Charging price
location
parking price)
3.1. Battery
The EV battery is closely related to the energy demand during its charging process.
The literature on EV load pattern modeling contains information on battery capacity and
other technical specifications of EV batteries. For example, in [31], they use and present
a table with various EV models intended for different uses, along with their respective
battery capacities and charging powers. Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) is the most commonly used
battery type in EVs because it offers greater safety, long life, and stable charge/discharge
cycles [32]. EV batteries are still being developed and improved, and other materials are
being explored. For example, lithium metal batteries can store more energy in the same
volume or weight as Li-Ion, but they are less safe than Li-Ion batteries [33]. In addition,
some EVs combine technologies, such as the Toyota Bz4x, which has nickel–metal hydride
batteries with Li-Ion. Table 2 presents different models of electric vehicles along with a
description of the characteristics of the batteries they use.
Electronics 2024, 13, 2259 6 of 23
On the other hand, one of the most commonly employed factors for modeling EV
load patterns is the state of charge (SoC). The SoC plays a crucial role in energy demand,
as the recharge time and the amount of energy required upon arrival at a charging station
are directly dependent on this state. SoC is a factor that evolves over time or as miles are
driven. These factors are interrelated and can be derived from mathematical formulas.
For example, in [34] the authors calculate the battery SoC of an EV after one day of driving
as follows:
d
SoC t = (SoC t−1 − ) × 100 (1)
D
where SoC t and SoC t−1 are the SoC of the battery at the end of the day and start of the day,
respectively, d is the distance traveled during the day, and D is the maximum distance the
EV can travel.
The SoC can also be calculated by [35]
Edemand
SoC desired = SoCinit + (2)
CB
where SoC desired refers to the desired battery state to travel a certain number of kilometers,
SoCinit is the SoC at the start of charging, CB is the EV battery capacity, and Edemand refers
to the energy demanded during charging by the EV. The energy demand can also be
determined by [36]
where PC is the charging power capacity, η represents the charging efficiency, and ∆t is
the charging time. Another important parameter is the battery charging time, discussed
in [31,36]. It is calculated by
where SoCin and SoC out are the SoC of the battery at the beginning and end of the charge.
The charging power (PC ) can also be represented by the battery charging current, Ib ,
as exemplified in [37]. This is because the battery capacity can be expressed in kW/h or
ampere-hours (Ah).
Additionally, the SoC can be derived from a set of assumptions, as described in [16],
where the maximum depth of discharge of the battery is stated to be 30%, a constraint to
limit the EV state of charge at the start of charging.
travel surveys or estimated data (which often require additional statistical analyses) and
worldwide traffic patterns (which are obtained from pilot experiments or GPS navigation
data), as mentioned in [5]. For the most part, the studies use variables such as daily
distances traveled, energy consumption per mile, and trip length, either from estimated
data or actual records. When accurate data are not available, it is common to resort to travel
surveys as a surrogate source of information. For example, Ref. [38] reports that in Austria,
an EV typically travels an average of 32 km per day.
On the other hand, it is possible to determine the energy demand per mile driven
through historical data or surveys that suggest a maximum energy consumption of
17 kWh/100 km in the winter and a minimum of 15 kWh/100 km in the summer. A similar
approach is found in [16], which considers a constant energy consumption in the range of
0.15–0.30 kWh/km, depending on the distance traveled.
3.3. Weather
The charging demand of EVs can be correlated with temperature due to their thermal
sensitivity, which implies that fluctuations in temperature impact the energy demand in the
grid [5]. Therefore, this indirect factor is considered when modeling EV load. For example,
in [9], different demand profiles of an EV in winter and summer are presented. In addition,
maximum energy consumption data of 17 kWh/100 km in winter and a minimum of
15 kWh/100 km in summer are used to estimate the electrical demand of EVs [38].
3.4. Day
In many studies, time variables are an important factor. The literature often focuses
on modeling EV charging demand for a weekday, although some compare differences
between weekdays and weekends, as in [39]. On the other hand, in [5], the modeling and
prediction of the weekly demand profile is addressed, highlighting the daily variations
in EV charging. In summary, it is possible to obtain different EV load demand models by
considering different time intervals. A comprehensive approach could involve modeling
EV charging demand over a year.
Verification Analysis
Real World
Mathematical
explanations or Interpretation
solution
prediction
Dependent var.
Real measurement Measured data
Pmeas
Meter AC/DC DC/DC
Independent var.
The most commonly used types of static and dynamic load modeling in EV modeling
include exponential static load models, polynomial static load models, and exponential
recovery dynamic loading models.
• The exponential static load model (EXP) can be represented by
α
P V
= (5)
P0 V0
β
Q V
= (6)
Q0 V0
where the variables P0 , Q0 , and V0 are rated active power, rated reactive power,
and rated voltage, respectively, while α and β are the unknown model parameters.
There is a modification of this equation, known as constant power plus exponential
model (PEXP), where a constant variable is added to the exponential load model,
as follows:
α
P V
= p1 + p2 (7)
P0 V0
Another modification of the exponent model is the linear exponential model (LEXP),
as shown:
α
P V V
= p1 + p2 (8)
P0 V0 V0
Electronics 2024, 13, 2259 9 of 23
x x x
−4 −3 −2 −1 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 5 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1
x x x
1 2 3 4 5 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
n
k
k x k−1 −(x/λ)k f (k; x) = p (1 − p)n−k (λt)k e−λt
f (x; λ, k) = λ λ
e k f (k; λt) = k!
Figure 6. Probability distributions and their PDFs to model the factors affecting EV load modeling.
and charging duration can be calculated. The methodology used for modeling EV loading
using the MCS method is shown in Figure 7.
Start
End
Figure 7. Schematic process of MCS simulation and calculation of EV charging demand (modified
from [46,48]).
In [48], a case study based on the Java–Bali Indonesian electric system is considered
to study different realistic scenarios of EV adoption, using probabilistic models and an
MCS modeling approach. The results of the study show that since EVs overload the
electricity system and incur high electricity production costs, adopting a proposed new
rate scheduling strategy can alleviate these problems. In [34], the Bass forecasting model is
employed using historical EV growth data between 2013 and 2018 to estimate the number
of EVs through 2022. In addition, the authors resort to MCS simulations to estimate EV
loading demand. The loading characteristics for different EVs (private, cab, and buses) are
analyzed, considering factors such as charging time, starting time, daily mileage, charging
method, and charging power. Similarly, Ref. [18] analyzes the factors influencing the
EV load distribution and formulates the corresponding PDF, based on variables such as
charging mode, SoC, load demand, and initial charging time specific to each EV type.
The daily charging profile of the different EV types is calculated using an MCS simulation.
Ultimately, the total EV load distribution curve is obtained by superimposing the individual
contributions of the different EV types.
Then, considering that the series of states are aligned by a homogeneous Markov chain,
a transition probability matrix of these states is determined, represented by Equation (14).
P11 P12 ··· P1n
P21 P22 ··· P2n
P = ( Pij ) = . .. .. .. (14)
n .. . . .
Pn1 Pn2 ... Pnn
This matrix is then applied to create a new chain of states. Finally, each state in
this new chain is transformed into an EV parameter value with a firm random generator.
The predicted values from the Markov method are based on the probabilities obtained from
the historical EV data [24].
Pi,n
Pi,i+1
Si Si+1 Sj Sn
Pi,j
Markov chain theory can analyze the relationship between the starting point, des-
tination, and arrival time of EVs. For example, in [16], researchers use traffic data to
model urban areas in Nanjing, identifying five zones, and adjusting travel times using a
Weibull PDF and Markov chain theory to characterize traffic flow patterns and electric
vehicle charging demand, considering variables such as distance traveled and battery SoC.
The analysis shows that peak demand tends to occur at 6 a.m., midday, and evening for
various types of EVs, except for electric cabs because of variability in the distances traveled.
On the other hand, the theory of Markov chains is also used to represent the evolution of
the battery SoC over time. The work in [36] focuses on an aggregation model of EVs and
highlights the use of higher-order Markov chains to define the charging and discharging
states of EVs. In addition, it uses the Poisson distribution to predict the EV charging start
time. This approach reduces the complexity of the state space. The model is validated in
MATLAB with data from a charging station in China and its ability to accurately predict
EV charging is demonstrated. Hence, methods based on Markov chain theory have a large
memory and carefully examine the problem space, so are appropriate for modeling the
behavior of EVs.
where yt is the present value, µ is a constant, γ and θi are the undetermined coefficients
and ε t is the error. The AR(p) model expresses the relationship between the present value
and the historical data. The MA(q) model focuses on the error accumulation of the AR(p)
model, which can effectively eliminate fluctuations. The construction of the ARIMA model
usually consists of three steps. The first step includes pattern recognition and order deter-
mination, while the second step involves parameter estimation, and the third step conducts
Electronics 2024, 13, 2259 13 of 23
model validation [50]. The authors in [49] employ an ARIMA method for modeling and
forecasting conventional electric load and EV parking demand. ARIMA parameters are
adjusted to minimize the mean square error and improve accuracy by decoupling daily
and seasonal load profiles. This approach shows significant error reduction and is used
in a daily scheduling problem with random constraints. Simulation results demonstrate
daily cost savings of 2.9% and 23% on 6-bus and 24-bus systems, respectively. On the
other hand, Ref. [50] focuses on modeling and short-term prediction of vehicle flexibility
and participation in real-time energy markets. Predictions are studied for both one hour
and 15 min ahead. Due to the complexity of the load data and their lack of continuity,
the ARIMA method combined with a Gaussian filter is used. It is found that using the
ARIMA method for EV load forecasting yields values close to the actual values. Both
studies highlight the usefulness of ARIMA in EV load forecasting and demand response
flexibility, with a focus on optimizing accuracy and reducing costs in energy operations.
Domain
In [51], the impact of EV battery charging on the electric grid is examined. The
researchers use data from driving cycles and parking patterns to model driver behavior.
A fuzzy inference system is used to model drivers’ recharging decisions, representing the
SoC, parking duration time, and charging probability as triangular fuzzy numbers. Hourly
charges are estimated for various vehicle types and different battery capacities, considering
charging regimes and home and work charging scenarios. The results show the impact on
the electric grid with the adoption of EVs.
Fuzzy logic can also be used in conjunction with the MCS. This hybrid method
combines probabilistic and fuzzy techniques to model EV loading and address uncertainty
in the input data. PDFs or datasets are required to extract EV loading. This hybrid
approach considers both spatial and temporal uncertainty of EVs, unlike most methods
that focus only on temporal uncertainty and assume uniform load locations throughout the
network [24]. In [52], the demand for EVs on the electric grid is addressed by using a fuzzy
logic model to simulate EV users’ decision making about charging. Key factors, such as
EV autonomy (AEV), battery state of charge (SoCEV), and daily travel distance (Dd), are
considered. These factors are described in terms of low, medium, and high, and are used
to determine charging decisions. A Monte Carlo simulation is employed to analyze EV
charging over multiple days, considering multiple factors. EV type and charging power
are selected based on market contribution and geographic location. The battery SoC on
arrival is estimated and the charging period is calculated based on daily travel distance
Electronics 2024, 13, 2259 14 of 23
and charging power. The EV charging decision is determined through the function C(AEV,
Dd, SoCEV). With a similar approach, Ref. [53] proposes a novel method based on a fuzzy
inference algorithm to predict the EVs’ load distribution in time and space. A travel chain
model is established to describe the dynamic process of EVs by considering traffic factors
and modeling PDFs of the spatiotemporal variables in the travel chain. A fuzzy inference
system with three inputs and one output is used to calculate the load probability, instead of
assuming specific load conditions. Load distribution curves are obtained by Monte Carlo
simulation, confirming the validity and accuracy of the method.
Input
Yes Test No
1
Test Test
2 3
Yes No Yes No
X2 Decision tree I
X1
X10
X6
X4
X1 X1
X2 Decision tree II
Σ
X5 RF
X3 X10 X3 X7 Average all
X7 prediction
predictions
X9 X9
X6
X8
X2 Decision tree III
X6 X8
X3
Dataset Bagging
Figure 11. Schematic diagram of training random forest (modified from [55,57]).
Similarly, the authors in [58] present an EV charging forecasting model that combines the
sparrow search algorithm (SSA) and improved random forest regression (RFR). The SSA-
RFR model significantly improves the accuracy of load prediction compared to other
models due to parameter optimization and better generalization capability. It focuses on
the load prediction of 12,450 EVs in a specific region. EV load data were collected at 15 min
intervals by MCS simulation and divided into training and test sets. On the other hand,
in [57], a load forecasting method for EV charging stations is proposed that combines
generative adversarial networks (GANs) and the RF algorithm. The GAN-RF model shows
high accuracy and generalization when considering load variability and human behavior.
The study collected data from charging stations in a specific region of Xian Yang for 15 days,
with sampling every half hour. The last day was used for validation. In [56], the EV charging
prediction of the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMAX) and RF
models are compared using real data from 1700 charging stations in the Netherlands.
The SARIMAX models outperformed RF in predicting charging for different time horizons.
Although the machine learning models outperformed a persistence approach, they could
not match the accuracy of SARIMAX. The authors conclude that this is possibly due to the
limited size of the training dataset.
These studies highlight the diversity of approaches in EV load prediction and under-
score the need to consider factors such as dataset size and problem complexity to achieve
accurate and effective predictions in power grid optimization.
Data pre-processing
Normalization Normalization
ANN Predictions
Input layer Hidden layer Output layer
Input 1
Inverse normalization
Input 2 Output 1
Figure 12. General framework of the ANN method (modified from [5,60]).
Electronics 2024, 13, 2259 16 of 23
is moderate to high, depending on the desired accuracy and variability of the data. Its
accuracy is high, especially if a large amount of high-quality data is available [65].
However, machine learning-based modeling and prediction of EV load patterns uti-
lizes advanced algorithms in learning patterns and characteristics of EV load data [66]. This
approach includes various techniques such as neural artificial network models and decision
trees [5]. Its main advantage is that it can provide very accurate predictions by learning
complex nonlinear relationships from the input data [67]. It fits well with evolving data and
can learn from new trends and patterns. Its main limitation is its large data requirements
as it requires large amounts of data to train models effectively [19]. Additionally it requires
advanced computational skills in data science and machine learning [20]. The accuracy is
very high provided sufficient high-quality data is available and appropriate algorithms are
used [65].
Table 3 shows the advantages and disadvantages of each method.
Table 3. Cont.
In [68], the predictive performance of the RF and ANN methods at different spatial
levels for predicting EV load is studied. In this study, they concluded that the RF model
was found to be more robust and accurate at different spatial levels and in case studies of
different sizes compared to the ANN model. On the other hand, in [69], they present an
investigation of nine diverse methodologies for forecasting EV load curves, encompassing
statistical, machine learning (ML), and deep learning (DL) techniques. The methodologies
are evaluated using four public and real EV datasets, with models incorporating online
and offline historical data for different scenarios and exploring seasonal variations through
annual simulations. The findings in this research suggest that ML models are the most
suitable due to their higher accuracy in forecasting EV load across different datasets
compared to DL and statistical models. However, the models studied demonstrated the
ability to predict EV load hourly, maintaining their accuracy even in the presence of
outlier data.
of real-time management algorithms is another key trend, as these can balance energy
demand and supply, optimize EV charging costs, and minimize the impact on the grid [20].
Consideration of government regulations or policies also plays a crucial role, as emissions
regulations, incentives for EV adoption, and infrastructure guidelines significantly influence
EV charging modeling strategies [70]. Likewise, understanding EV user behavior is crucial
for charging center location planning and demand management. Another future trend is for
models of EV load to incorporate factors such as usage habits, travel patterns, and charging
preferences of EV users. On the other hand, EV-related technology is constantly evolving.
For example, fast charging infrastructure is changing EV charging dynamics, so models
must consider the impact of these new technologies on the grid and charging patterns.
Another emerging trend is the vehicle-to-grid (V2G) concept [15]. This approach allows EVs
to not only draw power from the grid but also return energy stored in their batteries back
to the grid. This would help to balance energy demand, during consumption peaks and
provide ancillary services to the grid. However, for EV integration to be truly beneficial for
environmental preservation, it is crucial that EV charging does not rely on fossil fuel-based
power generation [70]. The increasing adoption of EVs is promoting the integration of
renewable energy. For this reason, modeling is being carried out where EV charging is
combined with renewable sources, such as photovoltaic systems, to maximize sustainability
and reduce carbon emissions [5]. Important to developing more accurate EV charging
modeling methods is the integration into the model of new technologies that emerge with
respect to EVs, real-time data collection and analysis, and collaboration between different
sectors. These methods will make it possible to forecast the impact of EV integration into
power grids and seek effective solutions.
6. Conclusions
The increasing adoption of EVs in the power grid is an inescapable trend that will
have a significant impact on PQ, stability, and economic efficiency of the grid. This shift
poses both opportunities and challenges in the optimal management of EV charging as a
flexible energy source. Therefore, it is essential to develop accurate and efficient models for
understanding and managing EV charging, which will affect both its future development
and the overall charging and electrical infrastructure. Accuracy in quantifying the scale
and evolutionary characteristics of EVs is critical to addressing the challenges in planning
and operating future energy systems.
In this overview, the examination initially focuses on various factors, both direct
and indirect, influencing EV charging modeling. In most of the papers reviewed, it was
observed that the main factors considered are SoC, average daily distance traveled, and EV
charging time. We then delved into EV charging modeling methods, dividing them into
three categories: deterministic, statistical, and machine learning modeling methods. Deter-
ministic modeling methods are characterized by their simplicity, do not require historical
data, and have low computational time. However, their main disadvantage is that they pro-
vide accurate modeling only for specific points in time and do not consider the uncertainty
of EVs. These methods may be appropriate for studies that seek to assess the impact of
EVs in a steady state. On the other hand, statistical methods offer high modeling accuracy
and consider the uncertainty of EVs, and can model EV load demand both spatially and
temporally. They require historical data, which can be collected through surveys or traffic
reports, and mostly the input data for these models are presented in PDFs. However,
their main disadvantage is that they involve higher computational costs. Finally, machine
learning methods can more accurately predict EV demand by considering the correlation
between input and output data. These methods can model EV demand both spatially and
temporally, for periods ranging from 15 min to several days. However, they are highly
dependent on the amount of historical data available, and their computational cost is
high. This review highlights the importance for researchers or network planners to identify
the amount of available data and their accuracy requirements before selecting the most
appropriate modeling method for EV loading.
Electronics 2024, 13, 2259 20 of 23
Abbreviations
The following abbreviations are used in this manuscript:
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