Reader Response Rewrite

Changes Made to my Reader Response

• Revised the first topic sentence to better align with the thesis on decarbonization.

• Added clarification on renewable energy sources and how they power ERS.

• Fixed sentence fragments and punctuation for smoother flow.

• Corrected APA formatting in the reference list.

• Maintained strengths in structure, detail, and source use while making these changes.

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Electric Road Systems: A Solution for Cleaner Transportation

Electric road systems (ERS), also known as electrified roads, are advanced infrastructure that transfer electricity from the road to vehicles, enabling dynamic charging while in motion (Kumar & Yadav, 2023). These systems directly address key challenges in transport and environmentalism—namely limited battery range and lengthy charging times. The three main types of ERS—inductive, overhead catenary, and conductive—have been implemented in several countries. For instance, Sweden’s eRoadArlanda uses a conductive system where vehicles maintain physical contact via a movable arm with electrified tracks embedded in the road (European Road Transport Research Advisory Council [ERTRAC], 2020). Similarly, SmartRoad Gotland in Sweden employs an inductive system, using underground coils that charge vehicles wirelessly via electromagnetic fields (Jepsen, 2022). Germany’s eHighway project adopts an overhead catenary system, where trucks use pantographs to connect to overhead wires for charging (Kumar & Yadav, 2023). According to Jepsen et al (2022), smart road technology integration, such as traffic and weather sensors, is another potential benefit. However, high installation costs and maintenance costs poses a strain to economies and inconveniences commuters. Despite these obstacles, electric roads have the potential to revolutionize transportation by enabling sustainable and efficient EV charging (Kumar & Yadav, 2023).

ERS are a critical innovation for global decarbonization. By directly addressing charging inefficiencies, they promote the widespread adoption of sustainable transportation, thus significantly contributing to global decarbonization efforts.

Electric road systems offer continuous energy transfer that enhances vehicle efficiency and reduces the need for large, heavy batteries. This allows for lighter, more cost-effective vehicle designs. According to Meyer (2024), continuous charging on ERS extends driving range and reduces reliance on stationary infrastructure. Mårtensson (2020, as cited in Volvo Trucks, 2020) reports that Elways AB’s segmented conductive solution—currently tested in the eRoadArlanda project—achieves 85–95% efficiency for both cars and trucks. Consequently, the integration of ERS not only solves key limitations of current EV infrastructure but also provides a more seamless and accessible charging experience, encouraging adoption of sustainable transport.

ERS play a pivotal role in reducing transportation-related carbon emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (2021) identifies fossil fuel consumption in transportation as a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, electric vehicles powered by renewable energy demonstrate significant emission reductions: 66–69% in Europe, 60–68% in the U.S., 37–45% in China, and 19–34% in India (Bieker, 2021). While the essay previously stated that ERS facilitate the use of renewable energy, it is essential to specify the types—such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric sources—that can be integrated into the power grid supplying these roads. These energy sources feed electricity into the grid, which then powers ERS infrastructure, thereby ensuring clean propulsion for vehicles. In doing so, ERS directly align with decarbonization targets and climate change mitigation strategies.

Despite their benefits, ERS installation poses logistical challenges that can disrupt traffic and inconvenience commuters. Mårtensson (2020) estimates that installing a dynamic inductive system could take three weeks per 100 meters, while conductive overhead systems may require up to a month for 10 kilometers. These projects are time-consuming and costly, yet they are comparable to other transformative infrastructure efforts—such as railways and highways—that initially caused inconvenience but ultimately yielded widespread benefits. Once established, ERS offer long-term returns in the form of reduced emissions, greater energy efficiency, and less strain on electrical grids. Although the initial investment is steep, the societal and environmental rewards justify the disruption and expense.

Electric road systems are a groundbreaking solution for addressing the dual challenges of EV infrastructure and global decarbonization. By enabling dynamic charging through renewable energy, ERS increase efficiency, reduce battery dependency, and cut carbon emissions in the transportation sector. While infrastructure costs and installation challenges present barriers, these are consistent with other large-scale innovations that have historically improved society. Therefore, ERS should be seen as a strategic investment in a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable future.

(This essay utilised ChatGPT to assist research and language use.)

References

Bieker, G. (2021). A global comparison of the life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions of combustion engine and electric passenger cars. International Council on Clean Transportation. https://theicct.org/publication/global-comparison-lca-ghg-emissions-sep21/

European Road Transport Research Advisory Council. (2020). Electric road systems: A solution for more sustainable road freight transport. ERTRAC. https://www.ertrac.org/publications/electric-road-systems

Kumar, R., & Yadav, S. (2023). Electric road systems: Recent advancements, challenges, and future trends. Energy Reports, 9, 197–208. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.egyr.2023.01.023

Meyer, J. (2024). Electric charging roads: Everything you need to know. The Zebra. https://www.thezebra.com/resources/research/electric-charging-roads/

Muelaner, J. (2022). Electric road systems for dynamic charging (SAE Research Report EPR2022007). SAE International. https://doi.org/10.4271/EPR2022007

Schwirzke, M., Albrecht, F., & Jepsen, T. (2022). The evolution of inductive electric roads: A technological perspective. Journal of Transportation Technology, 13(4), 115–127. https://doi.org/10.4236/jtt.2022.134007

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). Electric vehicle myths. https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/electric-vehicle-myths

Volvo Trucks. (2020). Electric roads: A niche solution for confined areas? https://www.volvotrucks.com/en-en/news-stories/insights/articles/2020/jul/electric-roads-a-niche-solution-for-confined-areas.html