Optimization of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Srinagar by Spatiotemporal Modelling

The rapid development of electric vehicles (EVs) has generated considerable interest in their feasibility, infrastructure development, and multifaceted impacts on both the environment and society. The current study delves into key aspects related to electric cars, focusing on their feasibility as an alternative to conventional vehicles, the essential role of charging stations in supporting their widespread adoption, and the consequent impacts on EV travel and social dynamics in Srinagar, India. The study addresses the challenge of minimizing congestion and wait times at charging stations, a crucial factor in improving the EV adoption rate. Optimizing EV charging stations in Srinagar through spatiotemporal modeling aligns with national and global sustainability goals. The present work involves proposing a time series optimization layout model based on spatiotemporal analysis. According to the framework for the optimal layout from the spatial adaptability index map, the low adaptability between urban charging station resources and spatial travel dynamics results in mismatched supply and demand across regions. Instead of merely increasing CS numbers, improving the balance of existing stations better addresses stakeholders’ interests. Two major interpretations are that Srinagar city requires more public charging stations with the best services and some subsidies for two and four-wheelers for the attraction of electric vehicles among the public. Additionally, given potential power supply limitations, the government should expand the existing CS development strategy to incorporate battery swap stations and mobile charging stations. The findings offer insights for urban planners and policymakers to support the sustainable development of EV infrastructure in Srinagar.