A review of computer tools for modeling electric vehicle energy requirements and their impact on power distribution networks

This paper presents a review of the many simulation tools that have been reported for modeling and managing the impact of electric vehicles on power distribution networks, and associated applications. One hundred and twenty-five simulation tools have been identified and among them sixty-seven tools have been summarized to facilitate selection of the most appropriate tools for specific tasks. Typical applications of the tools include vehicle system analysis and control, renewable energy and vehicle-to-grid integration and impact analysis, energy market behavior and charge scheduling, vehicle energy management, and traffic system simulation. No single tool covers all areas of these applications, however sufficient information is provided to enable researchers to select the most appropriate combination of tools to meet specific research objectives.