The Publictube concept by andy kim turns a network of e-buses into a network of potential batteries that can be used to transfer power between vehicles. This is a more advanced concept where the bus is charged while in motion, potentially using overhead power lines or inductive charging pads embedded in the road.
source-image: andy kim
A “direct rechargeable e-bus” refers to an electric bus that can be quickly charged at various points along its route. Each bus comes with a modular design that allows them to ‘plug into each other’ with contact points on the front and back to help transfer power.
source-image: andy kim
source-image: andy kim
When a bus runs low on power, instead of looking for a charging source, it just plugs to another bus for a temporary recharge. By topping up the battery during the day, e-buses can cover longer routes without needing a full overnight charge.
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This means you’re never really too far away from a charging-point, and that a network of buses can easily and efficiently deliver and distribute power among each other while operating on their routes.
source-image: andy kim
source-image: andy kim
Besides, when the buses find themselves at the depot after a long day, they can form a chain and connect to a single power source to effectively distribute battery power to each vehicle simultaneously!
