GIS-based analysis to locate electric vehicle charging stations in an urban environment: a case study in Bologna, Italy

Electric vehicles (EV) are gaining in popularity as a result of the positive effects they have on the environment. Nonetheless, there is still a significant obstacle in the way of their general acceptance, and that is a lack of suitable charging infrastructure. In this research effort, an assessment on the determination of the best places to set electric vehicle charging stations (CS) fully based on Geographic information system (GIS) will be presented. The methodology described is based on the hypothesis that EV in urban areas will be an integral part of a smart city, and their recharging needs should be accommodated within a smart urban planning approach. The study takes into account several parameters, such as population density, the presence of existing CS, and the distance to the main public points of interests. According to the findings, the most advantageous regions are those that are located in close proximity to the major travel destinations, such as railway stations and commercial districts. What has been tested in this study is acknowledged by authors as a valuable tool for public administration when they are in charge to developing EV charging infrastructure in urban areas.