Emission-Optimal Control and Retrofit Potential of a Series Hybrid Powertrain for Urban Waterbuses

Federico Miretti (), Alberto Nicolotti, Daniela Anna Misul () and Antonio Ferrari
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Federico Miretti: Center for Automotive Research and Sustainable Mobility (CARS@Polito) and Department of Energy (DENERG), Politecnico di Torino, Corso duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy
Alberto Nicolotti: Center for Automotive Research and Sustainable Mobility (CARS@Polito) and Department of Energy (DENERG), Politecnico di Torino, Corso duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy
Daniela Anna Misul: Center for Automotive Research and Sustainable Mobility (CARS@Polito) and Department of Energy (DENERG), Politecnico di Torino, Corso duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy
Antonio Ferrari: ACTV SpA, Isola Nova del Tronchetto 32, 30135 Venezia, Italy

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 17, 1-22

Abstract: This study evaluates the environmental benefits of retrofitting conventional diesel-powered waterbuses in Venice with a series hybrid electric powertrain comprising three generator sets and dual electric propulsion motors. Using real-world operational profiles recorded during typical passenger service, a quasi-static simulation model was developed to assess energy and emission performance. Real-world speed and torque data were collected from a conventional waterbus during regular passenger service to accurately reflect real operational conditions, including driver behavior and the sea state. These profiles were used as inputs to a quasi-static simulation model to assess the hybrid system’s energy efficiency and emission performance. Dynamic programming was applied to derive emissions-optimal control strategies, targeting trade-offs between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and unburned hydrocarbons (HC). The results demonstrate emission reductions of up to 31% in NOx and 15% in HC, confirming the strong potential of hybridization for urban maritime transport. The paper also examines component-level behavior under optimal control and discusses practical considerations for implementing these strategies in real-time applications. These findings support the strategic value of hybrid retrofitting and fleet renewal for reducing the environmental footprint of passenger ferries and improving air quality in sensitive coastal urban environments.

Keywords: hybrid ship; EMS; dynamic programming; optimal control; emissions; pollution (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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