FY22 Q2 PROGRESS UPDATE - APRIL 2022 Vehicle Technologies FOR NREL AND DOE/EERE INTERNAL USE ONLY
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FY22 Q2 PROGRESS UPDATE
APRIL 2022
Vehicle Technologies
1 FOR 2021
NREL AnnualAND
Report DOE/EERE INTERNAL USE ONLY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
R&D HIGHLIGHTS..............................................................................................................1
BATTERY AND ELECTRIFICATION TECHNOLOGIES .............................................2
Battery Technology R&D .......................................................................................2
Grid and Infrastructure ...........................................................................................6
ADVANCED ENGINE AND FUEL TECHNOLOGIES .................................................6
Next Generation Engines and Fuels......................................................................6
MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY .......................................................................................7
Lightweight Materials .............................................................................................7
TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION ...................................................................................8
Data and Systems Research .................................................................................8
Alternative Fuels Regulatory Program.................................................................13
ANALYSIS ...................................................................................................................13
Data…...................................................................................................................13
ENERGY EFFICIENT MOBILITY SYSTEMS (EEMS) ...............................................14
Computational Modeling and Simulation .............................................................14
AOP CHANGES & MILESTONE STATUS ......................................................................18
AOP CHANGES ..........................................................................................................19
MILESTONE STATUS.................................................................................................19
PUBLICATIONS & MEDIA OUTREACH .........................................................................28
FY22 YTD NREL VT PUBLICATIONS – Q2 ..............................................................29
VT Publication Metrics .........................................................................................29
VT Journal Article Impact Factors: Q1–Q2 FY22 ................................................30
VT Publications – Q2 FY22..................................................................................33
VT Publications – Q1 FY22..................................................................................36
MEDIA OUTREACH ....................................................................................................39
NREL’S VTO TEAM ..........................................................................................................41
R&D HIGHLIGHTS
R&D HIGHLIGHTS
3 2021 Annual Report
BATTERY AND ELECTRIFICATION
TECHNOLOGIES
Battery Technology R&D
Quarter Two
Battery Recycling Prize Site Visits Showcase Participant Progress
As the final deadline of the Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Prize approaches, the NREL Prize Administrator
organized virtual site visits to review aspects of the pilot validation approach on location with the six
participating teams. The NREL Prize Administrator developed detailed site visit expectations and a draft
agenda to guide teams through introductions, progress updates, voucher work, and the live site tour. These
site visits included up to 2 hours of multimedia presentations and discussions between teams, supporting
partners, and prize judges from the U.S. Department of Energy, Department of Transportation, and
Environmental Protection Agency. Teams will incorporate feedback from these site visits in the Phase III final
submission to the Prize, due April 8, 2022.
Funding source: AOP project
Rapid Electrochemical Relithiation Protocols Developed To Restore End-of-Life Lithium-Ion Battery
Cathodes
Relithiation techniques offer a pathway to recycle lithium-ion batteries, meet demand for transition metal
resources, alleviate environmental pollution from battery waste, and potentially reduce electric vehicle costs.
NREL researchers are evaluating new ways to minimize the time and cost impacts of relithiation for aged NMC
622 cathode materials with physics-based, model-informed experimental processes to optimize
electrochemical relithiation protocols. Using these models, researchers also identified key parameters that
enable successful relithiation, including cation mixing or surface reconstruction in end-of life cathode materials,
the presence of contaminants from previous processing steps, and the temperature at which lithium is inserted
into the material. These findings will help the U.S. Department of Energy’s ReCell program develop effective
recycling methods for spent or discarded lithium-ion batteries
Funding source: AOP project
High-Performance Computing Cluster Brings New Capabilities to Vehicle Technologies Program
Swift, the new Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO) high-performance computing cluster, started operation in
late 2021 and filled a critical need within VTO for computing resources. In FY22, the Go/No-Go decision was
met on time, and demand and usage has been sufficient to justify continued operation. Swift’s usage and
availability has been consistent with Eagle machine benchmarks, whose team commits to 90% availability and
75% utilization. By January 2022, availability for Swift was 90% and utilization was 96%. Projects currently
utilizing Swift range from research on safe and high-energy-density batteries to building models for complex
spinel-like disorder in disordered rocksalt materials. Users have reported short queue times and the ability to
get jobs running quickly with exceptional throughput on Swift.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
2Battery Data Hub Website Prototype Now Complete for Demonstration
Physics-based machine-learning and artificial intelligence models rely on massive amounts of data. As a result,
limited access to battery data and common analysis tools is impeding battery research across DOE and
partner organizations. With funding from the Vehicle Technologies Office’s Machine Learning Modeling
Support for Accelerated Life Prediction and Cell Design program, NREL is developing a new battery data
website (batterydata.energy.gov) as a central hub to capture and store battery data across organizations and
programs with common metadata, spanning low to high technology readiness levels. Two-factor authentication
protects proprietary data, but individual data sets can be released to the public as appropriate. An internal
prototype version is now available for demonstration purposes, with plans to release the website to DOE and
other users at the end of FY22.
Funding source: AOP project
In Situ Multiphase Spectroelectrochemical Study Provides Insights on Lithium-Ion Battery Degradation
To enhance battery performance, it is crucial to understand cell aging and failure mechanisms. Using a
combination of in situ gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID) and in situ attenuated total
reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), NREL researchers correlated
(electro)chemical degradation of the electrolyte with gas evolution in the battery (lithium nickel oxide/graphite).
GC-FID measures increasing amounts of ethylene gas until the end of the first charging cycle. Concurrently, in
situ ATR-FTIR shows decreasing concentration of ethylene carbonate (EC) solvent, as calculated from the
FTIR intensity of EC vibrational absorption. Ethylene is a known byproduct of EC electrochemical reduction
and is produced during solid-electrolyte interphase formation. Quantifying both multiphase reactions occurring
during battery operation is critical to understanding and mitigating battery degradation pathways. Next,
researchers will investigate transition metal complex formation on the anode due to transition metal dissolution
and crosstalk.
Funding source: AOP project
Technology Database Guides Extreme-Fast-Charge Research
Multiple technologies, from materials to systems, have the potential to enable extreme fast charge of lithium-
ion batteries. However, the wide variety of options can make it difficult for researchers to identify the most
promising options. As part of VTO’s eXtreme Fast Charge and Cell Evaluation of Lithium-Ion Batteries
program, NREL, Idaho National Laboratory, and Argonne National Laboratory created a database with more
than 25 technologies across seven categories, including key details from prior research. This database helps
guide future research to achieve the United States Advanced Battery Consortium’s low-cost, fast-charge goals.
Early analysis shows that combined technologies—including advanced electrolytes, elevated temperature,
advanced charge protocols, and thick electrode architectures—can offer significantly greater benefits than
single technologies. In addition, the database highlights areas requiring further study, including calendar and
cycle life of advanced cathode architectures and multilevel thermal solutions.
Funding source: AOP project
Novel Experiments and Microstructure Modeling Tools Support Measurement of Ion Transport in
Silicon Electrodes
Silicon electrodes offer improvements to the energy density and rate capacity of lithium-ion batteries, but not
without complications. When fully lithiated, silicon swells up to 300%–400%, much larger than the 10% or less
for graphite active materials. To better understand the effect of this swelling on ionic transport, NREL
researchers used a combination of novel experiments and microstructure modeling tools to measure and
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
3predict tortuosity of silicon electrodes both initially and after lithiation. The microstructure models predict that
this swelling reduces effective ion transport by a factor of 4 or higher during charging, due in part to an
increase in tortuosity. Detailed modeling found that silicon electrode designs require an optimal initial porosity
of 40%–50% for sufficient ionic transport. The modeling team will continue to work closely with the cell build
team to accelerate the design and fabrication of new electrodes.
Funding source: AOP project
Researchers Identify Milled Silicon as Baseline Material To Build New Cells
The NREL-led Silicon Consortium Project evaluated potential silicon baseline materials from participating
laboratories for production of a new battery cell. Researchers selected milled silicon from Oak Ridge National
Laboratory for the build. This selection considered the performance and availability of sufficient material
volumes needed to build the cell and scale production. Other materials considered include commercial SiOx at
Argonne National Laboratory, amorphous glasses from Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory, and plasma-
produced nanoparticles from NREL. As these materials advance in development, the Silicon Consortium
Project may consider them for inclusion in future cell builds.
Funding source: AOP project
Quarter One
Battery Recycling Prize Facilitates Industry Connections
The Prize Administrator for Phase III of the Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Prize continues to support the finalist
teams in the ongoing pilot validation of their concept solutions. To prepare the teams for success in their final
submissions, the administrator coordinated a voluntary networking event with the Suppliers Partnership for the
Environment’s Responsible Battery Work Group on December 7, 2021. Five teams joined this virtual event to
present their concept solutions and receive feedback from industry experts. The Prize Administrator also
finalized plans to partner with NAATBatt International for their upcoming annual conference from February 7–
10, 2022. This collaboration covers registration fees for two team members to present and share a poster
during a prize-focused session at the event. All six teams have confirmed their interest in this opportunity.
Funding source: AOP project
New Tool Allows Users To Easily Search Federal Battery Policies and Incentives
A new database and search tool located on the Vehicle Technologies Office webpage provides access to
federal policies, incentives, executive orders, and regulations related to batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) and
stationary energy storage. NREL researchers, with assistance from partner ICF, developed the database and
built a tool to search by jurisdiction, topic, and other parameters. The tool had more than 450 page views in the
first 15 days after launch. This effort builds on the success of the Alternative Fuels Data Center’s Laws and
Incentives search tool. State policies and incentives were added to the database in the latter part of December
2021.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
4Next Phase of Fast-Charge Battery Research Expands To Include Commercial Cells and Industrial
Partners
During Phase 1 of the eXtreme Fast Charge and Cell Evaluation of Lithium-Ion Batteries (XCEL) program,
NREL provided model guidance to Argonne National Laboratory to optimize single-layer pouch cells. Through
a combination of advanced electrolytes, dual-layer electrode designs, and novel charge protocols, the XCEL
team increased constant-current charge acceptance threefold, achieving 205-Wh/kg charge acceptance in 10
minutes. In addition, the team enhanced understanding of anode and cathode heterogeneities, degradation
mechanisms, and model improvements. In Phase 2, NREL, Idaho National Laboratory, and Ford Motor
Company will optimize fast-charge performance for prototype electrodes, commercial electrodes, and cells by
capturing 3D electrical and thermal behavior of large-format automotive cell arrays, including heating and
cooling requirements for fast charge. This collaboration will refine charge protocols for energy-dense (>275-
Wh/kg total) cells to avoid damage and achieve greater than 220-Wh/kg charge acceptance in 10 minutes.
Funding source: AOP project
Model Cathode Studies Transferred to Industry-Relevant Systems
Increasing the life of lithium-ion batteries requires a better understanding of the degradation of lithium-ion
battery cathode materials, which leads to decreased cell performance. Earlier NREL studies employed a wide
variety of electrochemical techniques, as well as electron paramagnetic resonance and inductively coupled
plasma spectroscopy, to study degradation products of model cathode and electrolyte systems. Recent work
has translated these earlier techniques to industry-relevant cathode materials, including the LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4
system, and adaptations to earlier techniques allow the study of industry-relevant electrolyte materials,
including the “Gen2” electrolyte (ethylene carbonate/ethyl methyl carbonate [EC/EMC] with LiPF6 salt). Initially,
the simplified format showed that cathode degradation in the Gen2 electrolyte appears to behave the same as
was observed for model systems using the EC, LiPF6 electrolyte. Both studies showed that EC and the PF 6
anion appear to have a strong effect on the properties of cathode degradation products. This research
identifies tailored solutions to mitigate cell performance loss in lithium-ion batteries. A better understanding of
the chemistry and electrochemistry of lithium-ion battery cathode degradation processes will enable deliberate
designs to mitigate cell performance loss, leading to longer-lived lithium-ion batteries for the consumer market.
Degradation of Gen2 electrolytes will continue to be studied and compared to other model system studies to
elucidate relevant degradation process mechanisms.
Funding source: AOP project
Continuum Solid-Electrolyte Interface Model Improved Through Pairing With Updated Atomistic Kinetic
Model
NREL’s novel continuum solid-electrolyte interface (SEI) model is enabling researchers to improve the
fundamental understanding of what factors impact silicon SEI stability, thereby helping determine methods for
improving stability. Replacing graphite active material with silicon in lithium-ion battery anodes increases the
energy density—and hence the driving range—of EVs by up to 20%. However, silicon has not been widely
used due to the poor calendar life (and to a lesser extent, cycle life) of silicon anodes. The main issue is the
non-passivating surface film formed on silicon in contact with liquid electrolyte. The team is using a variety of
models to better understand the chemical instability at the silicon surface and to propose solutions to improve
lifetime. Researchers used the continuum SEI model to study film growth during prolonged periods of rest or
potentiostatic holds. This provides insight into how SEI behavior/stability changes with anode potential/state of
charge. NREL improved their SEI model by incorporating a detailed, multi-step kinetic elementary reaction
mechanism into the continuum model based on atomistic modeling from Lawrence Berkeley National
Laboratory. The next step is to validate the model with experimental data, such as film composition from X-ray
photoelectron spectroscopy, calendar lifetime measurements, and in situ gas generation measurements. After
validation, the model will be used to explore strategies for improving lifetime. Further, many of the emerging
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
5chemistries of interest (e.g., sulfur, lithium, high-nickel) have very complex heterogenous chemistry. The
framework developed by the team can also be used to help develop these chemistries.
Funding source: AOP project
Grid and Infrastructure
Quarter Two
New Grid-Transportation Co-Simulation Capability Enables Large-Scale, High-Power Charging
Analysis
In the past, capturing spatial granularity to evaluate the impacts of individual high-power chargers was limited
to individual distribution feeders, preventing modeling of metro-area transportation interactions, shifting of
charge across areas, or establishing adjacent feeder relationships. Now, thanks to the Grid-Enhanced,
Mobility-Integrated Network Infrastructures for Extreme Fast Charging (GEMINI-XFC) project, simulations of
individual charger-distribution grid interactions across a large metropolitan area with thousands of feeders,
using realistic siting, charging infrastructure use, and parking constraints is possible. Initial results suggest
synergies between electric vehicle (EV) and distributed energy resource deployment, value from volt-var
control, and additional control needs with high EV adoption. Researchers next plan to evaluate grid-interactive
charging station control, storage, and grid upgrades to mitigate high-power charging impacts.
Funding source: AOP project
ADVANCED ENGINE AND FUEL TECHNOLOGIES
Next Generation Engines and Fuels
Quarter One
Natural Gas R&D Consortium Demonstrates New Advancements in Zeolite-Based Catalysts for Low-
Temperature Methane Oxidation
An NREL-led consortium with the U.S. Department of Energy, California Energy Commission, and South Coast
Air Quality Management District aims to develop breakthrough technologies for natural gas vehicles (NGVs) by
funding projects that target barriers to more widespread adoption of NGVs, including cost of ownership, limited
product offerings, combustion stability, emissions, and fueling infrastructure. Through the consortium, the
University of Buffalo is working to develop zeolite-based catalysts for improved low-temperature methane
oxidation. Most recently, the University of Buffalo successfully characterized the structure, morphology, and
composition of three suitable zeolite washcoated monolith mini cores for lab-scale microreactor testing. Images
taken of two washcoated monolith mini cores through scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-
ray spectroscopy provide a mapping of magnesium and silicon, elements contained within the monolith
structure and washcoat borders, respectively. This methodology identifies actual washcoat thickness before
and after experimental reactions. Additionally, the University of Buffalo identified an alternative synthesis
process through dry gel conversion, improving methane oxidation further than using hydrothermal synthesis
while requiring a lower Si/Al ratio and less synthesis time (2 days vs. 10). The University of Buffalo plans to
scale up the zeolite synthesis process over the next quarter, focusing on methane oxidation evaluation over full
lean and stoichiometric conditions, as well as identifying allowable kinetic and sulfur tolerances of the
washcoated monolith mini cores.
Funding source: VTO FOA
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
6MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY
Lightweight Materials
Quarter Two
Implementing Additives in Recyclable-by-Design Resin Lowers Cost and Enhances Performance
Composite materials used in vehicle applications must simultaneously meet multiple performance metrics
(which vary widely), necessitating understanding of how various additives augment and tune material
performance. Researchers explored the use of eight different additives at variable loadings in NREL’s
recyclable-by-design thermosets. This determined that none of the tested additives were detrimental to
composite performance, and select additives augmented material properties. These include—but are not
limited to—reduced cost, improved flame resistance, thermoforming of the material, and enhanced ductility.
Understanding the effect of additives and demonstrating the tunability enabled by select additives can enable
resins and composites to be formulated for specific vehicle components. Enhancements in certain metrics,
such as enhanced ductility, can result in the greater use of composites in vehicle applications and thus enable
a more efficient fleet. Future work will continue to ascertain the relationship between formulation, performance,
and ultimate application to further incentivize the use of recyclable-by-design thermosets. This includes
understanding how fiber sizing can influence performance and conducting accompanying techno-economic
and life cycle analyses on the materials across multiple lives.
Funding source: AOP project
Quarter One
Recyclable-by-Design Resin Is Compatible With Multiple Fiber Reinforcements, Enabling Greater
Redesign Potential
Today’s thermoset resins are inherently nonrecyclable. To enable recyclability, NREL developed a polyester-
covalently adaptable network (PE-CAN) for carbon fiber applications and applied it to different reinforcements,
such as basalt fiber, glass fiber, and polyethylene. The resultant composites demonstrated compatibility
between resin and fiber. Importantly, specific composites exhibited a higher ductility, akin to steel, which in turn
could enable further use of composites in vehicles due to improved lightweighting and material performance.
The PE-CAN resin was applied to 13 different fibers, including inorganic fibers, thermoplastics, and bio-based
fibers. The properties of the resultant composites were determined via dynamic mechanical analysis and
tensile testing. The resultant composites exhibited mechanical properties that were a function of the fiber
identity, and all exhibited compatibility between resin and fiber and excellent performance. Select fibers, such
as polyethylene-based fibers, exhibited a synergistic behavior, yielding moderate-strength, lightweight, and
ductile materials. Current carbon-fiber-reinforced composites are not ductile materials, which limits their use in
vehicle applications as a steel replacement. As the PE-CAN resin is compatible with multiple fibers and can
enable ideal properties (e.g., enhanced ductility), the use of composites in vehicles can be expanded to enable
a greater implementation. The greater use of composites in vehicles can lead to a further lightweighting of
vehicles and a more efficient fleet. Other additives for composites will be explored throughout FY 2022 to
understand if they can lead to more desirable properties and thus a greater implementation of recyclable-by-
design composites in vehicles.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
7TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION
Data and Systems Research
Quarter Two
AFDC Website Adds New Download Capability Detailing Historical Alternative Fueling Station Counts
by State
The landscape for alternative fueling stations and electric vehicle charging has grown rapidly in recent years. A
new data download from the Alternative Fuels Data Center provides annual snapshots of alternative fueling
station counts by state, showing the growth of fueling infrastructure annually since 2007. These data are based
on public and private (nonresidential) station counts in the Alternative Fueling Station Locator at the end of
December each year. This effort was an important first step in answering a frequent request for past station
data from transportation stakeholders. To expand on this, NREL will develop a historical station tool that will
provide more granular data with daily snapshots.
Funding source: AOP project
Electric School Bus Technical Resources Assist Fleets in “Flipping the Switch”
K–12 school bus fleets are increasingly interested in electric school buses (ESBs) and frequently request
technical assistance to evaluate the potential of adopting these buses into their fleets. To address this need,
NREL is working to develop an online technical assistance program called “Flipping the Switch on Electric
School Buses.” This eight-part series is available on the Alternative Fuels Data Center and the Clean Cities
Coalition Network YouTube channel. Each part of the series contains several video modules discussing key
topic areas about ESBs, as well as handouts discussing key resources. Modules can be watched in order, or
viewers can select those that are most applicable to their specific information needs. The first part of the series
was published in Q2 and covered an introduction to ESBs. The remaining seven parts will be published over
the following quarters of FY22, and NREL will continue to work with its partners to promote and distribute this
information to the industry.
Funding source: AOP project
Clearinghouse Provides States with Resources for Successful Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
Planning and Implementation
State governments play an important role in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure deployment and need
access to effective information, tools, and resources. To address this need, NREL partnered with the National
Association of State Energy Officials, Atlas Public Policy, and ICF to facilitate information sharing for states.
This partnership helped identify what states need for widespread EV infrastructure deployment and developed
a repository with a suite of resources. The resulting EV States Clearinghouse provides a free resource for state
agencies as they plan for and implement EV infrastructure programs under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
(BIL). The Clearinghouse includes state EV program documents, current state-level EV roadmaps, and other
resources, and will provide guidance on how states can utilize these resources to develop roadmaps. In the
next several quarters, NREL will continue to work with its partners to maintain the Clearinghouse and will work
closely with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to ensure the resources provided are helpful to
states as they plan and implement programs under the BIL.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
8Joint Office of Energy and Transportation Leverages NREL Transportation Electrification Expertise to
Launch New Federal Office
NREL, along with researchers from Idaho National Laboratory, the U.S Department of Energy (DOE), and the
U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) Volpe Center, helped to launch the Joint Office of Energy and
Transportation, an interagency collaboration between DOE and DOT that will serve as a catalyst for
transportation electrification in the United States. Leveraging long-standing, strong relationships and NREL’s
deep expertise in deploying transportation electrification technologies made it possible to quickly launch this
new federal office. NREL’s role thus far includes building a web presence (DriveElectric.gov), supporting the
development of 90-day guidance for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, and
establishing a technical assistance program to support state departments of transportation with creating
electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure build-out plans under the NEVI Formula Program. NREL tapped its strong
partnership with ICF to provide a highly responsive technical assistance concierge service. Next steps include
engaging with states and other stakeholders to provide technical assistance and other resources to support
state plan development for building out a national EV charging network.
Funding source: AOP project
Initial Key Stakeholder Discussions Indicate Value in Establishing Electric Transit User Group
NREL’s researchers identified the need for an electric transit industry forum and are developing the Electric
Transit User Group (ETUG) to identify key technical challenges and research priorities related to electric
vehicle (EV) adoption and use within the transit industry. ETUG will support the exchange of real-world
technical information and lessons learned among electric transit stakeholders and will help inform future
research. NREL worked with key stakeholders at the Center for Transportation and the Environment, Argonne
National Laboratory, and DOE to identify participants, discussion topics, and organizational frameworks for the
forum. Listening sessions and initial stakeholder discussions illuminated recurring themes participants
identified as barriers to adoption including the use of EV buses and charging infrastructure, such as
service/maintenance operations; heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) optimization; and driver
training.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Partners to Develop Energy and Environmental Justice Education and Training for Clean Cities
Coalitions
A seven-webinar series planned and hosted by NREL is the first phase of a 3-year Clean Cities energy and
environmental justice (EEJ) initiative to expand the institutional capabilities of Clean Cities coalitions to
incorporate equity in transportation projects. The webinars will provide education and training on equity
concepts and best practices for using a community-first approach when developing clean transportation
solutions to maximize benefits within historically underserved and overburdened communities. NREL is
partnering with Argonne National Laboratory, the Kirwan Institute of The Ohio State University, and the
Greenlining Institute to implement the training. Topics will include community engagement and equity
outcomes, rural and tribal transportation, and the role of fleets in underserved communities, among others.
After the webinar series, Clean Cities coalitions can apply to join an EEJ cohort to receive more in-depth
training around these topics, as well as coaching to identify potential organizational shifts needed to support
future EEJ efforts.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
9NREL, Clean Cities Coalition to Tackle Zoning Regulation Barriers to Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
Deployment
NREL’s researchers are working with a Connecticut-based Clean Cities coalition to identify how to develop
zoning ordinances that lead to robust electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. NREL’s flexible
subcontracting mechanism made it possible to quickly fund a work order, allowing staff from the Connecticut
Southwestern Area Clean Cities Coalition to devote the time and energy necessary to expand their existing
Municipal EV Readiness Toolkit to include an in-depth training on how zoning can impact EV infrastructure
buildout. The training instructs planning boards and commissions on how to remove barriers to EV
infrastructure deployment by improving their municipality’s ordinances around parking, signage, and
maintenance requirements, as well as accommodating provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Going
forward, NREL will work with the Coalition to leverage their staff’s expertise in this area to create train-the-
trainer programs so other coalitions can provide similar guidance in their own communities.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Guides Clean Cities Coalition in Testing Satellite Office Model for Statewide Impact
NREL researchers are collaborating with a Clean Cities coalition to develop a satellite office model to provide
robust, statewide assistance to alternative transportation stakeholders. Clean Fuels Ohio (CFO) is based in
Columbus but wanted to expand their reach throughout the entire state while still being able to build strong
relationships with stakeholders through high-touch support. To meet this need, the coalition leveraged the
nimble subcontracting mechanism NREL uses for coalition funding to pilot two satellite offices in Cleveland and
Cincinnati. This will enable CFO to better engage with local stakeholders and tackle deployment challenges by
incorporating site-specific considerations tailored to the needs of each location. NREL’s subcontract approach
makes it possible to be flexible and test new ideas like a satellite office model, which has the potential to
increase the impact of Clean Cities coalitions and thereby increase the impact of DOE dollars. CFO will pilot
their new model for one year, with the option to continue if it is successful. NREL will provide ongoing
oversight, engagement, and discussion to guide the project and determine whether this model can be used by
other coalitions.
Funding source: AOP project
Quarter One
Efficiency Ratios for Light-Duty Vehicles Registered in the United States Shed Light on Benefits of
Electric Vehicles
NREL completed and submitted an analysis on electric vehicle efficiency ratios (EVERs) aimed at providing
detailed efficiency ratios by specific vehicle segments and attributes. Analysts combined data from
FuelEconomy.gov, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency vehicle tests, and Experian vehicle registrations to
develop detailed comparisons between EVs and internal combustion engine vehicles based on attributes like
model, drive wheel configuration, weight, and horsepower. Using the vehicle registration data allowed the
calculation of ratios that account for current EV availability and consumer preference—a limitation of previous
EVERs. Results from this study can enable more precise estimates of the environmental and economic
benefits of adopting EVs, and calculating on-road EVERs can help align research assumptions about the
effects of converting internal combustion engine vehicles to comparable EVs in terms of impacts on energy
use, fuel use, and, by extension, emissions. NREL is working to expand the study to include more model year
2021 vehicle registrations and to add model year 2020 vehicles.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
10Stakeholder Engagement in Cities With Significant Disadvantaged Communities Provides Insight Into
Mobility Needs
Leveraging emerging technologies to increase mobility options within cities with significant disadvantaged
communities (CSDCs) is crucial to improving economic outcomes for the communities of focus while working
toward national energy efficiency objectives. Chronic barriers to access to mobility options limit economic
opportunity, including connections to jobs, education, and other critical needs. Identifying how emerging
transportation technologies and practices can improve mobility and reduce barriers to opportunity, as informed
by community stakeholders, is essential to addressing these challenges. For this project, researchers selected
St. Louis, Baltimore, and Cleveland as initial representative CSDCs. Engagement with community stakeholders
in these cities revealed several mobility challenges, including a spatial disconnect between where potential
workers live and the locations of business developments in need of employees. Researchers will synthesize
the information gathered through interaction with CSDC community partners, cooperatively develop applied
mobility project strategies, and support CSDCs in seeking supportive funding.
Funding source: AOP project
Fellowship Program Will Support Community Capacity Building Through Clean Transportation Prizes
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) supports community
improvements through on-the-ground projects and is expanding its efforts into community capacity building by
training the next generation of energy and transportation efficiency researchers and practitioners. NYSERDA is
sponsoring $85 million in funding to support clean transportation projects aimed at improving mobility in
underserved communities. The Technologist in Communities (TIC) program is using the team’s unique
capabilities and knowledge to scope training and support for early career specialists as fellows to support the
Clean Transportation Prize awardees. Through ongoing co-development, NYSERDA and the TIC team framed
key objectives for the fellows program, including identifying topic areas for training, plans for assigning projects
to fellows based on community connection and knowledge, and a certificate program for participants in
conjunction with a New York college or university. Next steps are to secure a higher education partner to
collaboratively develop the NYSERDA TIC fellows certificate program and to continue to refine the curriculum
for participants in order to best support the projects funded through the Clean Transportation Prizes.
Funding source: AOP project
Technical Response Service Informs State Efforts With Electric Vehicle Policy Compendium
States and Clean Cities coordinators are requesting more analysis and information on zero-emission vehicle
(ZEV) policies to help states understand how to model their potential EV programs in order to reach their goals.
In response to inquiries through NREL’s Technical Response Service on what should be considered in ZEV
policy, NREL subcontractor ICF built a state-customized report of current EV policy and recommendations
across the country to help inform actions. ICF is building a modified version of this report into its widely used
“State PEV Incentives and Fees” summary as a different way to present EV information and quickly provide
customized information to states and coordinators. This resource will position NREL to provide unique
information that states can use to develop ZEV policy options and allow Clean Cities coordinators to better
inform policymakers.
Funding source: AOP project
Updated Electric Vehicle Content Fuels National Drive Electric Week
NREL’s Sustainable Transportation Integration team outfitted Clean Cities coalitions for National Drive Electric
Week (NDEW) and launched an outreach campaign. NREL updated the most requested EV materials from the
Clean Cities coalitions, including a fleet-focused EV fact sheet, a consumer-focused brochure, and an
Alternative Fuels Data Center web card. In the month prior to NDEW, coalitions ordered 5,725 prints of these
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
11documents. NREL’s NDEW social media campaign included 20 posts across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn,
and Twitter, which garnered more than 1,000 reactions and 70,000 views, raising awareness, dispelling myths,
and sharing up-to-date information on EVs. NREL has launched a more comprehensive plan to update the
remaining EV materials in use by the Clean Cities community.
Funding source: AOP project
Clean Cities Coalitions Near an Energy Use Impact of 12 Billion Gallons of Gasoline Equivalent
The Clean Cities Coalitions 2020 Activity Report shows a cumulative energy use impact of 11.9 billion gallons
of gasoline equivalent since 1993, along with an emissions reduction of 62 million tons of greenhouse gases.
This impact reflects combined progress in both energy savings from efficiency projects and increased
alternative fuel diversity. Although year-over-year accomplishments were somewhat reduced by the overall
decrease of transportation use in 2020, participation in vehicle and infrastructure development projects
remained strong. Coalition projects also leveraged a 4:1 ratio in matching funds of the $38 million included in
the VTO budget, reached 11.8 million people with outreach activities, and partnered with more than 20,000
stakeholders. In the future, individual coalitions will submit energy justice metrics on their own activities as part
of the Biden administration’s Justice40 pilot.
Funding source: AOP project
Clean Cities Peer-to-Peer Effort Draws on Network Expertise To Expand Coalition Applications of Life
Cycle Modeling Tool
The NREL Clean Cities team drew upon the coalition network’s expertise to train coalition staff on how to use
and apply the Alternative Fuel Life-Cycle Environmental and Economic Transportation (AFLEET) tool in their
own work with transportation stakeholders. These trainings were provided as part of the NREL-managed peer-
to-peer activities, which facilitate collaboration among Clean Cities coalitions and give coordinators
opportunities to connect with and learn from one another in one-on-one and small group formats. The
coordinator from Louisiana Clean Fuels led the AFLEET training and developed specific technical capabilities
in other coordinators to also be fluent in using AFLEET. The trainer walked participants through a real-world
application of AFLEET and is working individually with coalitions to provide technical assistance as they use
the tool to answer their own stakeholder questions. Broadening coalition staff capabilities around AFLEET
enhances their reputation with stakeholders, helping make them a go-to resource for fleets looking to adopt
alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles. This fluency provides another tool as coalitions advise
fleets and other stakeholders with activities funded under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL, Clean Cities Strengthen Relationships With Community Organizations Through Equity and
Environmental Justice Project
NREL researchers are collaborating with the Kansas City Regional Clean Cities Coalition (KCRCC) on an
equity and environmental justice effort that will inform their interactions and relationships with community
organizations, including the creation of an internal plan to better engage these organizations in future work.
The project is intended to broaden the coalition’s equity and environmental justice expertise and community
portfolio. NREL played a pivotal role in advising KCRCC in project design and implementation while connecting
the coalition to equity subject matter experts at the laboratory. As a result, the coalition was well positioned to
host in-depth listening sessions with four community groups—Clean Air Now, Poetry for Personal Power, West
Side Housing, and My Region Wins. The sessions resulted in key insights from the organizations that will
impact future project design, including respecting the time of community organizations with limited resources
and only extracting data from underserved communities to publish reports if they result in a benefit to the
community.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
12Alternative Fuels Regulatory Program
Quarter One
Two Pilot Studies Demonstrate Method To Identify Suitable Electric Vehicles, Impacts of Charging
Demand Within Fleet Operations
Fleets seeking to integrate EVs into their operations face several hurdles, including how to identify suitable
vehicle replacements and manage charging to limit peak demand costs. Two telematics-based studies on light-
duty EVs were conducted in coordination with nine state and university fleets and key support from Sawatch
Labs. The state fleet analysis demonstrated a method to identify peak demand concerns and opportunities to
mitigate EV load impacts. Key considerations to help fleet managers understand the potential impact of EV
charging on their facility’s overall electricity demand and its ability to achieve sustainability goals with fleet
electrification included energy needs, dwell locations and durations, and understanding how to coordinate
electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) with fleet vehicles. The university fleet analysis examined five fleets
and helped identify which vehicles are the best candidates for electrification. The study resulted in conclusions
on how to identify electrification candidates, which factors are relevant to the question, and which factors are
less determinative of good EV selections. Although energy price is a key contributor in any fleet’s total cost of
ownership analysis, energy cost fluctuations were found not to significantly change a fleet’s electrification
opportunities; simple fleet management issues related to parking locations, ease of access to EVSE, and the
need to deploy EVSE at multiple locations were more determinative. These pilots allow fleet managers
pursuing aggressive fleet sustainability goals to consider how certain factors would affect fleet operations, or if
other alternative fuel vehicle technologies could be a better fit.
Funding source: AOP project
ANALYSIS
Data
Quarter Two
New Methodology Uses Real-World Data To Address Co-Optimization of Electric Commercial Vehicle
Battery Size and Charging Infrastructure
Many electrification studies are based on range requirements determined from average daily driving distances.
However, successful electrification of commercial vehicle fleets requires an understanding of actual daily
operations and associated battery size requirements, which depend on available charging infrastructure and
opportunities to charge, including stop locations and dwell time. The National Commercial Vehicle Data
Framework (NCVDF) team developed a novel, scalable methodology for discretizing and encoding geographic
information with operational data to inform coupled battery size and charging infrastructure requirements. The
team applied the methodology to newly acquired real-world data for tractors in marine port service under two
scenarios. The early adoption scenario—with limited infrastructure and no changes to vehicle routing and
scheduling—showed that much larger batteries are required than is typically assumed for this use case.
Increasing infrastructure availability and allowing schedule adjustments decreased these battery requirements
by a factor of two. Understanding the trade-offs between battery size and infrastructure requirements can help
fleets develop effective electrification plans without major disruptions to operations. Applied to large, real-world
operational data sets, this methodology can also assist researchers and manufacturers in understanding
vehicle design requirements. Looking forward, the team will refine the methodology and apply it to a larger data
set that better captures the variation in vehicle operations. This enhanced analysis will quantify the relationship
between charging power, availability of chargers, and vehicle battery size.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
13Quarter One
Strategic Data Analytics Guide Cost-Effective R&D for Commercial Vehicle Decarbonization
Achieving decarbonization goals requires understanding commercial vehicle segments, dynamic market
trends, performance requirements, and technology impacts across a broad range of use cases. Currently,
there is a lack of comprehensive, accurate, and accessible data and advanced analytics for commercial
vehicles. However, this information is required to develop an effective decarbonization strategy and conduct
successful R&D. To address this need, the National Commercial Vehicle Data Framework team developed a
multipronged data acquisition strategy and data pipeline to capture, cleanse, augment, and analyze operational
data. The team also developed a preliminary structure for the framework to securely store these data, ensure
privacy, and enable stakeholder access to anonymized data and data products. Prioritization and strategic data
collection are critical due to system complexity and the size of information gaps, and industry partnerships are
key to successful data collection. Looking forward, the team will continue implementing the acquisition strategy
to achieve the project vision of providing updated, integrated, and comprehensive commercial vehicle data and
intelligence to support strategic planning, R&D portfolio development, and current and future R&D projects.
Funding source: AOP project
ENERGY EFFICIENT MOBILITY SYSTEMS (EEMS)
Computational Modeling and Simulation
Quarter Two
Multimodal Search Technique Integration Improves Mobility Energy Productivity Calculation
Classical search techniques omit the nuanced, dynamic nature of real-world mobility, where transitions
between travel modes can lead to improved results. To address this, NREL’s mobility energy productivity
(MEP) team implemented a search algorithm that allows customizable trip constraints, conducted over a graph
model that captures within-trip mode transitions along with associated delays such as parking, wait times, and
transit schedules. This improves the accuracy of mobility modeling in MEP analyses, leading to better
comprehensibility of MEP results, as well as the ability to pose specific mobility scenarios. With this capability
fully integrated into the MEP calculation pipeline, the next step is to leverage this feature to improve the core
MEP methodology’s ability to model the connections between transit, ride-hailing, and nonmotorized travel.
Funding source: AOP project
New Scenarios Simulate Energy, Other Impacts of Micro-Freight Mode Shifts in Cities
Rapid and widespread shifts in the movement of goods in urban areas are happening due to a confluence of
factors, including a surge in e-commerce deliveries, technological advancements in electric micro-freight
vehicles, and local government efforts to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate roadway congestion,
and manage curb space demand. The Systems and Modeling for Accelerated Research in Transportation
(SMART) 2.0 Micromobility-Integrated Transit and Infrastructure for Efficiency (MITIE) project developed micro-
freight scenarios for use by the two SMART 2.0 agent-based modeling efforts: Behavior, Energy, Autonomy,
and Mobility (BEAM), led by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and POLARIS, led by Argonne National
Laboratory. These scenarios draw on the two existing U.S. pilot deployments of micro-freight with available
data from New York City and Seattle. The variability in key indicators between these two cities allows for the
development of scenarios that will be relevant to a broad range of metropolitan areas around the country. Local
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
14governments will benefit from agent-based modeling results that accurately capture the short- and medium-
term shifts in freight movement that are currently unfolding. As these changes are very recent, the present
represents a prime opportunity to update modeling approaches to reflect these trends. Replacing larger
delivery vehicles with smaller micro-freight vehicles is expected to improve transportation network efficiency.
NREL researchers will continue working with the BEAM and POLARIS teams in the near future to refine the
scenarios and implement them in the next phase of modeling work, as well as collaborate with Argonne to
install sensors to evaluate energy intensity on representative micro-freight vehicles.
Funding source: AOP project
OpenPATH Tool Dashboard Updates Allow Individual Carbon Footprint Estimations, Include Data From
User Labels
NREL’s Open Platform for Agile Trip Heuristics (OpenPATH) tool now allows users to estimate their individual
carbon footprint. Prior to this change, footprint calculations were based on the mode inferred using phone
sensor data, but because no inference is perfect, these modes could be inaccurate. The inference algorithm
also cannot distinguish between modes with similar sensor characteristics, such as carpooling vs. driving
alone. To address these concerns, NREL researchers had already allowed participants to override the auto-
detected modes with user labels, but the footprint calculations had not been updated to respect the override.
The research team created a new OpenPATH tool function that, based on a server-level configuration option,
uses either the sensed modes or the user labels for the footprint calculation. Because user-labeled modes can
include novel modes such as ride-hailing and micromobility, it was necessary to expand the energy intensity
table used for the footprint calculations. Unlike the automated algorithm, which inferred the mode for every trip,
participants can delay or skip labeling. NREL reworked every stage of the footprint calculation to handle this
uncertainty by generating a range instead of a single number when unlabeled trips are present, providing a
more accurate calculation. Accurate metrics are more meaningful, and overriding “the algorithm” gives users a
sense of agency. These metrics could also motivate or validate user transportation behavior to be more
energy-efficient. Next, researchers plan to “count every trip” by incorporating the inferred labels or the sensor-
derived modes for trips that do not have user labels. The research team also plans to make the representation
of the footprint range less confusing to a general audience that does not have statistical training.
Funding source: AOP project
Scaling Up the Simulation Model and Defining Energy-Based Automated Traffic Signal Performance
Measures Enables Energy Impact Measurement
To enable increased traffic signal control in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and increase observability around the
state of traffic, scaling up the simulation model and defining energy-based automated traffic signal
performance measures (ATSPMs) is critical. Defining ATSPMs will allow researchers to measure the energy
impact of traffic signal control the team is planning to deploy. To do this, NREL scaled up the simulation model
from only representing the Chattanooga region to include part of Georgia as well. This involved enlarging the
traffic network and traffic demand by analyzing and converting network and demand files provided by the
Georgia Department of Transportation. The simulations now successfully represent this larger region.
Researchers also worked on defining energy-based ATSPMs that account for the excess fuel consumed by
vehicles at traffic signal intersections. These energy-based ATSPMs complement existing mobility-based
ATSPMs, such as delay and arrival at red lights, to evaluate how traffic signal timing impacts vehicle fuel
consumption. This is important because traffic control needs to first be tested in a high-fidelity simulation to
evaluate its performance and impact before deployment. The energy ATSPMs will provide another way to
measure the impact on vehicle fuel consumption of the different traffic signal controls being developed and
planned for deployment. Next steps include validating and calibrating the traffic simulation model to ensure it
accurately represents the real system. Researchers also plan to demonstrate the energy-based ATSPMs on
the Shallowford Road corridor intersections in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Funding source: AOP project
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
15Quarter One
Range-Based Calculation Framework Evaluates Impacts of Changing Traffic Conditions on Mobility
Energy Productivity
NREL researchers developed a range-based calculation framework that incorporates dynamic traffic
considerations into mobility energy productivity (MEP) values. The MEP value of a location represents how
easily and efficiently people can access goods and services. However, traffic conditions fluctuate throughout
the day, and a single MEP value based on conditions at one point in time does not fully characterize a location.
Thus, it is necessary to explore MEP values at different times during the day and examine how these values
are impacted by traffic in peak hours. A range-based calculation framework enables an analysis of how
changing traffic conditions impact MEP values. Researchers created this framework and applied it to
calculations for the Detroit, Michigan, metropolitan area. The analysis showed isochrones and MEP values
during four time slots: morning peak hours (7:00–9:00), midday (13:00–15:00), afternoon peak hours (16:30–
18:30), and midnight (0:00–2:00). The overall MEP values in Detroit showed highest energy productivity at
midnight, followed by midday, morning peak hours, and finally afternoon peak hours, which had the lowest
score. Next, this range-based MEP framework will be integrated with MEP 2.0 methodology.
Funding source: AOP project
Mode Choice Model Explores How Travelers Choose Between Micromobility and Traditional Modes of
Transportation
Gaining insight into how people choose between traditional travel modes and micromobility, an emerging range
of small modes for short trips, is critical for understanding micromobility’s potential to reshape travel patterns
and reduce energy use. NREL researchers developed a mode choice model that explores how factors such as
travel time and cost influence whether travelers choose micromobility options or other travel modes, and
predicts the likelihood of travelers using each potential model alternative in different scenarios. The model
adopted multinomial logit structures and was established based on travel survey data and micromobility trip
records in Washington, D.C., during 2018. Initial tests demonstrated that the model predictions compared well
with observed data. This model helps planners and practitioners understand the factors behind behavioral
decisions around mode choice when micromobility options are added to the mix. This information is critical for
effectively designing and regulating the implementation of micromobility programs to optimize energy and
mobility efficiency. Next steps include refining the model to enhance predictive capabilities and exploring new
modeling approaches, such as the fundamental influencing factor model, which does not require as much
detailed data to capture mode choice behavior.
Funding source: AOP project
Real-Time Signal Algorithm and Traffic Controller Module Optimizes Regional Mobility
NREL’s digital twin of traffic flows in Chattanooga, Tennessee, supports traffic situational awareness and
helps minimize congestion and improve mobility energy efficiency in the Tennessee-Georgia region. NREL, in
collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Chattanooga Department of Transportation,
developed a regional control approach using artificial intelligence and high-performance computing to
accomplish substantial energy savings across city streets and freeways. Researchers scaled up and
deployed model predictive control (MPC) real-time traffic signal algorithms for the Shallowford Road
corridor in Chattanooga, changing traffic signal settings according to real-time traffic states. Results showed
that MPC real-time control decreased the corridor’s average vehicle delay by 30% and its vehicle energy
consumption by 4%, with up to a 30% reduction in vehicle energy consumption on some of the corridor’s road
segments. Traffic states were derived from real-time data pulled from GridSmart cameras installed on
intersections, as well as probe data from the TomTom traffic company. In addition, researchers developed a
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) phase traffic signal controller module in Simulation of
Urban MObility (SUMO), now included in SUMO core. The developed module enables using SUMO for mobility
NREL Q2 FY22 Vehicle Technologies Office Progress Update
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