New model optimizes eVTOL battery charging and swapping stations
Closed-loop supply chain and space-time network reduce eVTOL range anxiety
A team led by Pengfeng Lin from multiple Chinese universities has published a paper proposing a collaborative optimization model for battery charging and swapping stations for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The model leverages a closed-loop supply chain approach combined with a space-time network to schedule battery logistics—covering swapping, transportation, and charging processes. By maximizing operational revenue, the system coordinates eVTOLs, swapping stations, and charging stations simultaneously, addressing key constraints like limited battery energy density and high power requirements for rapid energy replenishment.
Simulations solved with Gurobi confirm the model's feasibility. The researchers claim it alleviates eVTOL range anxiety and provides strong support for commercialization of low-altitude air mobility. Additionally, the model enables coordinated scheduling between eVTOLs and the power distribution network, helping to gradually upgrade grid infrastructure as eVTOL deployment scales.
- Uses closed-loop supply chain and space-time network to optimize battery logistics across charging, swapping, and transportation.
- Model solved with Gurobi to maximize operational revenue for eVTOL battery infrastructure.
- Simulations show reduced range anxiety and support for commercial eVTOL operations, plus better grid integration.
Why It Matters
As eVTOLs scale, optimized battery infrastructure is critical to overcome range limits and enable commercial air taxis.