This study is about the conversion of waterbuses for public transport in Venice (Italy) from a diesel engine to a hybrid diesel-electric drive. It examines energy storage systems, electrical machines and drives, and takes into consideration economic, environmental and social issues. Alternative solutions based on hybrid diesel-electric and full-electric power trains are compared. The study concluded that a hybrid diesel engine with lithium battery is the best option for an easy first implementation, even when taking existing infrastructure into consideration.

Electromobility will play a key role in future mobility patterns. This study explores how government infrastructure policy can increase the uptake of electric vehicles. Focusing on subsidy scenarios for infrastructure deployment and vehicle purchase, it finds important interactions between powertrain types and infrastructure provision.

The decarbonisation of the road freight sector is challenging, so alternative approaches need to be investigated. This study proposes a framework for the electrification of road freight operations. Using four case studies, it demonstrates that electrification of road freight is a viable option that should form part of a low-carbon transport system.

Battery electric buses are considered a well-suited technology for the electrification of road-based public transport. However, the transition process from conventional diesel to electric buses faces a number of challenges such as the limitations in travel range and charging times of batteries. The study  provides a methodology for planning depot charging battery bus fleets and their charging infrastructure. It reveals that a mixed fleet of different bus types could be advantageous dependent on the operational characteristics of the bus route.