Design and Analysis of Solar-Battery Powered Electric Three-Wheelers for Bangladesh Using MATLAB Simulink

In urban and rural areas, auto-rickshaw three-wheelers are crucial for passenger transport, particularly in Bangladesh, where they are widely used as taxis. These vehicles are favored for their compact design, which suits the crowded streets of many Asian cities, including India and Pakistan. However, challenges such as high charging costs and limited mileage per charge impose financial strains on vehicle owners. This study presents a solution by designing a solar-battery-powered electric three-wheeler using MATLAB Simulink. The proposed system integrates a 600 W solar panel on the canopy and a 60 V, 200 Ah Lead-Acid battery to extend the vehicle's operating time to 60 hours, a significant improvement from 15 hours without solar assistance. The design also allows for a four-day charging interval and features a payback period of just nine months, making it financially viable for industrial adoption. This model offers vehicle owners increased mileage, reduced operating costs, and addresses Bangladesh's power crisis by reducing dependency on conventional energy sources. The study highlights the potential of solar-assisted electric rickshaws to transform the transportation sector in Bangladesh and similar regions, promoting sustainable and cost-effective mobility solutions.