Method for leasing power storage device, computer device, and leasing system

Abstract

To provide a power storage device lease method, a computer apparatus, and a lease system which accurately determine a lease charge of a power storage device in a lease service which leases not only the power storage device for vehicle but also with added values.SOLUTION: A power storage device lease method includes: acquiring a value of a battery using a batter capacity maintenance rate of a vehicle equipped with the battery which is a kind of a power storage device; determining a battery insurance fee for a user of the vehicle to receive an insurance service related to battery replacement, using an accident risk of the vehicle; and determining a battery lease charge using the value of the battery and the battery insurance fee.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for leasing an electricity storage device, a computer device, and a leasing system. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-177652 (Patent Document 1) discloses that the rental fee (i.e., battery lease fee) paid by a user for the rental of a battery installed in a vehicle is determined according to the battery's full charge capacity. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-177652 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present inventors propose a new leasing service that not only simply rents out vehicle power storage devices but also rents out the devices with added value. While the method described in Patent Document 1 may be able to accurately evaluate the value of the power storage device itself based on the full charge capacity of the power storage device, it is difficult to accurately evaluate the added value added to the leasing service. Therefore, in the new service, it is difficult to accurately determine the leasing fee for the power storage device using the method described in Patent Document 1.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to accurately determine the lease fee for a power storage device in a leasing service that not only simply rents out a power storage device for a vehicle but also rents out the device with added value. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to an embodiment of a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for leasing an electricity storage device, as described below.

[0007] (Item 1) The method for leasing an energy storage device includes: for a vehicle equipped with an energy storage device, determining the value of the energy storage device using the capacity maintenance rate of the energy storage device; determining an insurance premium for the vehicle user to receive insurance services related to the replacement of the energy storage device using the vehicle's accident risk; and determining a lease fee for the energy storage device using the value of the energy storage device and the insurance premium.

[0008] In the above leasing method, an insurance service is added as an added value to a leasing service for renting out a power storage device for a vehicle. The insurance service for replacing the power storage device is a service that exempts a user who has caused the power storage device to deteriorate or break down from at least part of their liability for compensation (more specifically, the user's liability for compensation to the owner of the power storage device). The owner of the power storage device is, for example, a leasing company. For example, if a user who has taken out insurance meets specified replacement requirements, a replacement power storage device may be provided to the user free of charge (or for only a specified fee). For example, the user may remove the deteriorated or broken power storage device from the vehicle at a station that replaces power storage devices mounted on vehicles, and install a new power storage device (one with less deterioration) provided by the station in the vehicle.

[0009] In the above leasing method, the value of the power storage device is calculated using the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device. The higher the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device, the higher the value of the power storage device tends to be. Therefore, by calculating the value of the power storage device based on the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device, it becomes easier to accurately evaluate the value of the power storage device. Furthermore, in the above leasing method, not only the fee paid by the user for the power storage device (i.e., the fee based on the value of the power storage device) but also the insurance premium paid by the user to receive insurance services is included in the lease fee for the power storage device. In the above leasing method, the insurance premium is determined using the accident risk of the vehicle. The accident risk indicates the possibility that the vehicle will be involved in an accident in the future. If the vehicle is involved in an accident, it is highly likely that the power storage device installed in the vehicle will need to be replaced. Therefore, by determining the insurance premium based on the accident risk, it becomes easier to accurately evaluate the insurance premium. In this way, the above leasing method makes it possible to accurately determine the lease fee for the power storage device in a leasing service that not only simply rents out power storage devices for vehicles but also rents out power storage devices with added value.

[0010] The method for leasing an electricity storage device described in the above paragraph 1 may have the configuration described in any one of paragraphs 2 to 5 below.

[0011] (Section 2) The method according to Section 1 further has the following feature: determining the insurance premium includes evaluating an accident risk using vehicle driving data for an evaluation period set before the target period of the insurance service, and determining the insurance premium for the target period using the accident risk evaluated for the evaluation period. The driving data includes at least one of the vehicle's accumulated driving distance or accumulated driving time, and the distance or time the vehicle has driven in a congested environment.

[0012] In the above leasing method, the accident risk is evaluated using the vehicle's driving data during an evaluation period set before the insurance service period, and the insurance premium for the insurance service period is determined based on the evaluated accident risk. Moreover, the driving data used to evaluate the accident risk includes the driving distance or driving time. Therefore, the above method makes it easier to accurately evaluate the accident risk and appropriately determine the insurance premium.

[0013] (Item 3) The method according to item 1 or 2 further has the following features. Determining the insurance premium includes a first insurance premium determination process that determines the insurance premium using an accident risk of the vehicle and a degradation risk of the power storage device, and a second insurance premium determination process that determines the insurance premium using only the accident risk of the accident risk and the degradation risk. The leasing method further includes determining the insurance premium by the first insurance premium determination process when the vehicle body parts excluding the power storage device are owned by the user and the power storage device is provided to the user through leasing. The leasing method further includes determining the insurance premium by the second insurance premium determination process when both the vehicle body parts and the power storage device are provided to the user through leasing.

[0014] Hereinafter, a vehicle in which the vehicle body (excluding the power storage device) is owned by the user and the power storage device is provided to the user through leasing will be referred to as a "partially leased vehicle." Also, a vehicle in which both the vehicle body and the power storage device are provided to the user through leasing will be referred to as a "fully leased vehicle." The above method makes it easier to appropriately determine insurance premiums for each of partially leased vehicles and fully leased vehicles.

[0015] (Item 4) The method according to item 3 further has the following features: Determining the insurance premium by the first insurance premium determination process includes: evaluating that the longer the vehicle's mileage or driving time is, the higher the accident risk is, during an evaluation period set before the target period of the insurance service; evaluating that the longer the time during the evaluation period that the remaining amount of stored power in the power storage device is equal to or greater than a predetermined value is, the higher the deterioration risk is, and determining the insurance premium for the target period using the accident risk and deterioration risk evaluated for the evaluation period.

[0016] In the above leasing method, the longer the vehicle's mileage or driving time during the evaluation period, the higher the accident risk is assessed. This makes it easier to accurately assess the accident risk. Furthermore, the longer the remaining charge of the power storage device is above a predetermined value during the evaluation period, the higher the deterioration risk is assessed. If the power storage device is left with a large remaining charge, deterioration of the power storage device tends to accelerate. Therefore, the above method makes it easier to accurately assess the deterioration risk. Furthermore, accurate assessment of the accident risk and deterioration risk makes it easier to appropriately determine insurance premiums.

[0017] (Item 5) The method according to item 3 or 4 further has the following feature: Determining the insurance premium by the first insurance premium determination process further includes evaluating that the longer the distance or time that the vehicle has traveled in a cold region during the evaluation period, the higher the risk of deterioration.

[0018] When a vehicle travels in cold climates, deterioration of the power storage device tends to be accelerated. Therefore, the above method makes it easier to accurately evaluate the risk of deterioration.

[0019] According to one aspect, there is provided a program for causing a computer to execute the method for leasing an electricity storage device according to any one of aspects 1 to 5. In another aspect, there is provided a computer device for distributing the program.

[0020] According to an embodiment of a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer apparatus as follows.

[0021] (Item 6) The computer device includes a processor and a storage device that stores a program that causes the processor to execute the method for leasing an electricity storage device according to any one of items 1 to 5.

[0022] The above-mentioned computer device is suitable for carrying out the above-mentioned method.

[0023] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a leasing system for an electricity storage device as follows.

[0024] (Item 7) The power storage device leasing system includes the computer device described in item 6 and a user terminal of a vehicle. The computer device is configured to notify the vehicle or the user terminal of the determined lease fee. The user terminal is configured to display the lease fee.

[0025] According to the above-described leasing system, the lease fee determined by the above-described method is notified to the user terminal of the vehicle and displayed on the user terminal, thereby enabling the user of the vehicle to know the lease fee.

[0026] The user terminal may be an in-vehicle terminal installed in a vehicle or a portable terminal carried by a user of the vehicle. The user terminal may be linked to the vehicle and registered in advance in a computer device.

[0027] (Item 8) The leasing system described in item 7 further has the following features: The computer device is configured to notify the vehicle or the user terminal of measures to reduce the lease fee together with the amount by which the measures will reduce the lease fee. The user terminal is configured to display the measures to reduce the lease fee together with a ranking of the amount by which the measures will reduce the lease fee.

[0028] The above-mentioned leasing system allows vehicle users to learn about measures to reduce lease fees. Furthermore, users can understand the ranking of the amount of reduction in lease fees (i.e., the effectiveness of each measure). This allows users to compare and balance lease fees and convenience before selecting a measure to implement from the presented measures.

[0029] (Item 9) The leasing system according to item 7 or 8 further has the following feature: When the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device falls below a predetermined threshold, the computer device notifies the vehicle or the user terminal to encourage the replacement of the power storage device through an insurance service.

[0030] According to the above-described leasing system, when the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device mounted on the vehicle decreases, the notification is sent to the user terminal. As a result, the user who receives the notification can replace the power storage device through the insurance service. According to the above-described leasing system, the user can easily use the vehicle for a long period of time by replacing the power storage device every time the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device decreases.

[0031] (Item 10) The leasing system according to any one of Items 7 to 9 further has the following feature: When the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device falls below a predetermined threshold, the computer device limits the control of the power storage device by the vehicle to protect the power storage device, and when replacement of the power storage device in the vehicle is completed, the computer device releases the control limit.

[0032] According to the above-described leasing system, it is possible to protect the power storage device by limiting control of the power storage device from the time when the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device decreases until the replacement of the power storage device is completed. This makes it possible to prevent excessive deterioration of the power storage device. This makes it easier to reuse the power storage device removed from the vehicle for replacement.

[0033] The vehicle equipped with the power storage device may be an xEV (exhausted electric vehicle) that uses electricity as all or part of its power source. Examples of xEVs include BEVs (electric vehicles), HEVs (hybrid vehicles), PHEVs (plug-in hybrid vehicles), and FCEVs (fuel cell vehicles). [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0034] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a leasing system for an electricity storage device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] A diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of a battery station included in a leasing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 4 is a flowchart showing a process related to battery replacement in the method for leasing an electricity storage device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram for explaining information managed by a management center included in a leasing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed by a dealer terminal when a new vehicle is registered in a leasing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart showing a process for determining a lease fee at the time of lease contract renewal in a leasing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a method for determining insurance premiums and lease fees in a leasing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a vehicle equipped with a rented power storage device in a leasing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing control for suppressing a rise in lease fees in a leasing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 10 is a diagram for explaining the notification process shown in FIG. 9. FIG. [Figure 11]10 is a flowchart showing notification control executed by a partially leased vehicle in a leasing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of notification by the processing shown in FIG. 11. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated.

[0036] 1 is a diagram for explaining an outline of a leasing system for an electricity storage device according to this embodiment. The leasing system shown in FIG. 1 includes a dealer 100, a battery station (hereinafter referred to as "BSta") 200, and a management center 500.

[0037] The management center 500 is a server that provides an insurance service in addition to a leasing service for renting out power storage devices for vehicles (for example, xEVs). The management center 500 manages information related to the leasing service and the insurance service. The management center 500 belongs to, for example, an automobile manufacturer. In this embodiment, the automobile manufacturer serves as both the leasing business operator and the insurance company. However, this is not limited to this, and the leasing service and the insurance service may be provided by different businesses. For example, a leasing service with an insurance service added may be provided by linking the server of the leasing business operator and the server of the insurance company.

[0038] The above-mentioned leasing service employs several types of leasing methods, including partial leasing and full leasing. The partial leasing method is a leasing method in which only the power storage device for a vehicle is rented out. A user who rents out a power storage device under the partial leasing method provides the rest of the vehicle (the body) excluding the power storage device. The user can install the power storage device rented from the automobile manufacturer in a body that the user owns. An xEV becomes capable of running when the power storage device is installed in the body. When the partial leasing contract expires, the user returns only the power storage device to the automobile manufacturer. On the other hand, the full leasing method is a leasing method in which the entire vehicle (i.e., both the body and the power storage device) is rented out. When the full leasing contract expires, the user returns not only the power storage device but the entire vehicle to the automobile manufacturer.

[0039] The above-described insurance service is an insurance service for the replacement of a power storage device, and more specifically, is a service that exempts a user who has deteriorated or broken down a rented power storage device from at least a portion of their liability for damages. Hereinafter, such insurance for the replacement of a power storage device will also be referred to as "battery insurance." In this embodiment, by receiving battery insurance, the user is exempted from all liability for damages to the owner of the power storage device (i.e., the automobile manufacturer). More specifically, by receiving battery insurance when a rented power storage device deteriorates or breaks down, the user can receive a replacement power storage device free of charge. For example, the user can remove the deteriorated or broken power storage device from the vehicle using the BSta 200 and install a new power storage device (a power storage device with less deterioration) provided by the BSta 200 in the vehicle. However, a user who has subscribed to battery insurance is not always eligible for the application of battery insurance. A user who has subscribed to battery insurance can receive the application of battery insurance only if they satisfy certain replacement requirements. The replacement requirements will be described later (see S21 in FIG. 3).

[0040] Dealer 100 includes server 150. Automobile manufacturers sell or lease vehicles through dealer 100. Dealer 100 not only sells vehicles manufactured by the automobile manufacturers but also provides the leasing and insurance services described above. Dealer 100 rents out at least one of a vehicle body and a power storage device provided by the automobile manufacturer. Dealer 100 may, for example, rent out power storage device 12A of vehicle 10A shown in FIG. 1 to a user by a partial leasing system. In this case, vehicle 10A corresponds to a partially leased vehicle (hereinafter, may be referred to as "vehicle A"), and vehicle body 11A of vehicle 10A becomes the property of the user. Power storage device 12A of vehicle 10A is provided to the user by lease and becomes the property of the automobile manufacturer. Dealer 100 may also rent out vehicle 10B shown in FIG. 1 to a user by a full leasing system. In this case, vehicle 10B corresponds to a fully leased vehicle (hereinafter, may be referred to as "vehicle B"). Then, the entire vehicle 10B (vehicle body 11B and power storage device 12B) is provided to the user through lease and becomes the property of the automobile manufacturer.

[0041] The management center 500 includes a processor 510, a storage device 520, and a communication module 530. The server 150 includes a processor 151, a storage device 152, and a communication module 153. Each of the processors 510 and 151 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Each of the storage devices 520 and 152 is configured to be able to save stored information. Each of the storage devices 520 and 152 may include an HD (Hard Disk) drive or an SSD (Solid State Drive). Each of the communication modules 530 and 153 is connected to a communication network NW by wire. The management center 500 and the server 150 are configured to be able to communicate with each other via the communication network NW. The communication network NW is, for example, a wide area network constructed by the Internet and wireless base stations. The communication network NW may also include a mobile phone network.

[0042] The BSta 200 replaces batteries (power storage devices) installed in vehicles. In this embodiment, a battery (more specifically, a secondary battery) is used as the power storage device. However, the power storage device may be any device that can store power, and examples of the power storage device include secondary batteries and large-capacity capacitors. The BSta 200 includes a storage device 210, an inspection unit 220, a transport unit 230, an exchange device 240, and a server 250. The inspection unit 220 includes a charger / discharger 221, a measuring device 222, and a sorting device 223. The transport unit 230 includes a collection device 231, a filling device 232, and a supply device 233. Below, the functions of each unit of the BSta 200 will be described in detail using FIG. 2.

[0043] 2 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of a battery station (BSta200) according to this embodiment. Hereinafter, a vehicle rented out by dealer 100 may be referred to as "vehicle 10." Vehicle 10 may be vehicle A (FIG. 1) or vehicle B (FIG. 1).

[0044] 2 together with FIG. 1, the server 250 includes a processor 251, a storage device 252, and a communication module 253. The processor 251 includes, for example, a CPU. The storage device 252 is configured to be able to save stored information. The storage device 252 may include an HDD drive or an SSD. The communication module 253 is connected to the communication network NW (FIG. 1) via a wire. The server 250 is configured to be able to communicate with the management center 500 shown in FIG. 1. The server 250 sequentially transmits information it holds (for example, first battery information shown below) to the management center 500.

[0045] The storage device 252 of the server 250 stores information about each battery present in the BSta 200, distinguishing it by battery identification information (battery ID). Hereinafter, information about a battery (first battery) present in the BSta 200 will also be referred to as "first battery information." The first battery is owned by the automobile manufacturer. A new battery may be supplied to the BSta 200 from the automobile manufacturer, or a used battery collected from a vehicle 10 may be stored in the BSta 200.

[0046] The first battery information held by server 250 includes specifications (e.g., initial capacity, charging performance, and discharging performance), status (e.g., pre-inspection / inspected (reuse / other use / disposal) / ready for supply, as described below), SOH (State of Health), and SOC (State of Charge).

[0047] SOC indicates the remaining amount of electricity stored, and is the ratio of the current amount of electricity stored to the amount of electricity stored in a fully charged state, expressed as, for example, 0 to 100%. SOH indicates the state of health, and a smaller SOH indicates a greater degree of deterioration. In this embodiment, the capacity maintenance rate is used as the SOH. The capacity maintenance rate of the storage device is the ratio of the current capacity of the storage device to the capacity of the storage device in an initial state (undegraded state), and is expressed as, for example, 0 to 100%. The capacity of the storage device corresponds to the amount of electricity stored in a fully charged state.

[0048] In response to a request from the vehicle 10, the BSta 200 replaces the battery of the vehicle 10, for example, in the following procedure. The server 250 is configured to be able to wirelessly communicate with the vehicle 10 and acquires battery information from the vehicle 10. The server 250 and the vehicle 10 may perform short-range communication using, for example, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), or may communicate via a communication network NW. In the BSta 200, the recovery device 231, the filling device 232, and the supply device 233 included in the transport unit 230 shown in FIG. 1 are each configured to transport batteries. The transport method may be a conveyor system or a system using a transport robot. The replacement device 240 is equipped with a mechanism for removing the battery from the vehicle 10 and a mechanism for attaching the battery to the vehicle 10.

[0049] After parking the vehicle 10 at a predetermined position within the BSta 200, the vehicle 10 requests the server 250 to exchange the battery. In response to this request, the server 250 starts control for the battery exchange. First, the server 250 controls the exchange device 240 so that the exchange device 240 removes the battery from the vehicle 10. Hereinafter, the battery removed from the vehicle 10 will be referred to as "battery B1." Then, the server 250 selects a battery corresponding to battery B1 from among multiple batteries B2 stored in a storage section (e.g., a hangar) of the storage device 210. Battery B2 corresponds to the replacement battery. The selected battery B2 has the same specifications (e.g., initial capacity, charge performance, and discharge performance) as battery B1. However, the SOH of battery B2 is higher than that of battery B1. Furthermore, the SOC of battery B2 is equal to or higher than a predetermined SOC value (e.g., 50%).

[0050] Next, server 250 controls supply device 233 so that supply device 233 transports battery B2 from storage device 210 to replacement device 240. Next, server 250 controls replacement device 240 so that replacement device 240 installs supplied battery B2 in vehicle 10. This completes the battery replacement of vehicle 10.

[0051] In parallel with the above-described battery replacement process, the BSta 200 also executes a reuse process for the battery B1 removed from the vehicle 10. The reuse process is executed, for example, in the following procedure.

[0052] When battery B1 is removed from vehicle 10, server 250 starts control for battery reuse. First, server 250 controls collection device 231 so that collection device 231 transports battery B1 to inspection unit 220. Next, server 250 controls inspection unit 220 (charger / discharger 221, measuring device 222, and sorting device 223) so that inspection unit 220 inspects battery B1. SOH recovery processing may be performed on battery B1 before inspection. The status of battery B1 before inspection is "before inspection."

[0053] In the above test, the charger / discharger 221 discharges the battery B1 until the SOC value becomes equal to or less than a predetermined first SOC value (e.g., an SOC value indicating an empty state), and then charges the battery B1 until the SOC value becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined second SOC value (e.g., an SOC value indicating a fully charged state). The measuring device 222 includes various sensors and measures the state of the battery B1 during charging (e.g., temperature, current, and voltage). The measuring device 222 then detects the SOH (storage capacity maintenance rate) of the battery B1 from the data measured by the measuring device 222. Note that the SOC and SOH may be measured by known methods, such as at least one of a current integration method, an OCV (open circuit voltage) estimation method, an equivalent circuit model method, and a nonlinear Kalman filter method.

[0054] The sorting device 223 sorts the battery B1 into one of reuse as a vehicle battery, use for other purposes (purposes other than for vehicles), and disposal, depending on the results of the inspection. The statuses of the battery B1 sorted into "reuse as a vehicle battery," "use for other purposes," and "disposal" are "inspected (reuse)," "inspected (other purposes)," and "inspected (disposal)," respectively. The sorting device 223 may classify a battery B1 whose SOH is less than a first reference value as "inspected (disposal)," a battery B1 whose SOH is equal to or greater than the first reference value and less than a second reference value as "inspected (other purposes)," and a battery B1 whose SOH is equal to or greater than the second reference value as "inspected (reuse)." The second reference value is higher than a BTh (replacement threshold) described below. A battery B1 with the status "inspected (other purposes)" is shipped for other purposes. An example of other uses is stationary use. A battery B1 with the status "inspected (disposal)" is discarded. However, during the disposal process, the battery may be disassembled to the material level, and recyclable materials (resources) may be recovered and reused (resource recycling). The measuring device 222 may further include a camera for visual inspection. The sorting device 223 may classify batteries B1 with significant visual damage as non-reusable (for other uses or disposal).

[0055] Battery B1 with the status "inspected (reused)" is treated as battery B2 (replacement battery) described above. After the above inspection, server 250 controls charging device 232 so that charging device 232 transports battery B2 (battery B1 with "inspected (reused)") to storage device 210. The transported battery B2 is charged into storage device 210. As a result, inspected and charged battery B2 is set in storage device 210. However, without being limited to this, storage device 210 may be configured to charge inspected battery B2. The status of battery B2 set in storage device 210 is "available for supply".

[0056] 2 shows an example in which battery removal and battery installation are performed at different locations. The vehicle 10 may be transported from the removal position to the installation position by a transport device (e.g., a conveyor-type transport device) not shown. However, this is not limiting, and battery removal and battery installation may also be performed at the same location. Battery replacement (removal and installation) may also be performed while the vehicle 10 is stationary (e.g., parked).

[0057] 3 is a flowchart showing a process related to battery exchange executed by the vehicle 10 and the battery station terminal (server 250). In the following, each step in the flowchart will be simply represented as "S".

[0058] 3 together with FIG. 2, a series of processes from S11 to S18 are executed by the vehicle 10 (for example, the ECU 111 shown in FIG. 8, which will be described later). A series of processes from S21 to S27 are executed by the server 250. After the vehicle 10 arrives at the BSta 200, in S11 the vehicle 10 transmits a signal requesting battery exchange (hereinafter also referred to as an "exchange request signal") to the BSta 200. In the series of processes shown in FIG. 3, the vehicle 10 requesting battery exchange is referred to as the "target vehicle." The exchange request signal includes identification information (vehicle ID) of the target vehicle. The vehicle 10 may execute the battery exchange request (S11) in response to an instruction from a user.

[0059] Upon receiving the exchange request signal, the server 250 determines in S21 whether or not predetermined exchange requirements are met for the target vehicle. Specifically, the server 250 acquires information about the target vehicle from the management center 500 based on the vehicle ID. The server 250 then determines whether or not the exchange requirements are met based on the information acquired from the management center 500.

[0060] In this embodiment, the replacement requirement is not satisfied if a predetermined exclusion requirement is satisfied. In other words, not satisfying the exclusion requirement is a necessary condition for satisfying the replacement requirement. For example, the exclusion requirement is satisfied if a user intentionally degrades or breaks down the battery. In this embodiment, the exclusion requirement is satisfied when the management center 500 receives a report (fraud report) that a user of the target vehicle intentionally degrades or breaks down the battery, and the exclusion requirement is not satisfied if the management center 500 has not received the fraud report. The replacement requirement is satisfied when the exclusion requirement is not satisfied and the management center 500 receives a report (accident report) that the target vehicle has been involved in an accident. Furthermore, with respect to vehicle A shown in FIG. 1 , the replacement requirement is also satisfied when the exclusion requirement is not satisfied and the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device 12A mounted on vehicle A (target vehicle) becomes equal to or less than a predetermined replacement threshold (BTh, described later).

[0061] If the replacement requirements are met for the target vehicle (YES in S21), the server 250 sends a permission notice to the target vehicle in S22, and then the process proceeds to S24. On the other hand, if the replacement requirements are not met for the target vehicle (NO in S21), the server 250 sends a denial notice to the target vehicle in S23, and then the series of processes from S21 to S27 ends. In this case, the battery replacement is not performed.

[0062] After transmitting the exchange request signal (S11), the target vehicle waits for a reply from server 250. Then, when the target vehicle receives the reply from server 250, it determines in S12 whether or not the battery exchange is permitted. Then, if the target vehicle receives the above-mentioned notification of permission (YES in S12), the process proceeds to S13. On the other hand, if the target vehicle receives the above-mentioned notification of denial (NO in S12), the series of processes from S11 to S18 ends. In this case, the battery exchange is not performed.

[0063] In S13 and S24, the battery replacement is carried out according to the procedure described above (see FIG. 2). The target vehicle and server 250 exchange information for the battery replacement. Server 250 acquires information (e.g., specifications) about the battery installed in the target vehicle from the target vehicle.

[0064] Once the battery replacement is complete, the target vehicle performs an inspection of battery B2 (FIG. 2) installed in the vehicle in S14. The target vehicle then transmits the results of the inspection to server 250 in S15. The target vehicle then determines whether the battery replacement was successful or not based on the inspection results in S16. The target vehicle determines that the battery replacement was successful if the inspection does not reveal any abnormalities (e.g., poor connection or abnormal electrical performance), and determines that the battery replacement was unsuccessful if the inspection reveals any abnormalities. Similarly, server 250, which has received the inspection results, also determines in S25 whether the battery replacement was successful or not based on the inspection results (no abnormality / abnormality present).

[0065] If the battery replacement is successful (YES in S16 and YES in S25), the target vehicle and server 250 each update their own battery information in S17 and S26, and then the series of processes shown in FIG. 3 ends. On the other hand, if the battery replacement is unsuccessful (NO in S16 and NO in S25), the target vehicle and server 250 each execute predetermined abnormality processing in S18 and S27. The abnormality processing may include processing to notify the user of the target vehicle that the battery replacement has failed. The abnormality processing may also include processing to notify the management center 500 that the battery replacement has failed. Furthermore, the abnormality processing may include processing to temporarily remove battery B2 (FIG. 2) installed in the target vehicle from the target vehicle and then redo the battery replacement. After the abnormality processing is executed, the series of processes shown in FIG. 3 ends. Note that the abnormality processing can be set arbitrarily.

[0066] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining information managed by the management center 500 according to this embodiment.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 4, identification information (vehicle ID) of each vehicle sold or leased by dealer 100 is registered in advance in management center 500. The vehicle ID may be a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Storage device 520 of management center 500 stores information about each vehicle (hereinafter also referred to as "vehicle information"), distinguishing them by vehicle ID. For parameters that vary over time among the vehicle information, the latest values ​​are sequentially transmitted from each sold or leased vehicle to management center 500, and management center 500 records the changes in these parameter values. Then, management center 500 distinguishes the recorded data according to unit periods (e.g., one month) corresponding to the period covered by insurance service, and manages the data for each unit period so that it can be obtained.

[0068] The vehicle information includes usage mode information, second battery information, accident risk information, deterioration risk information, fee information, and whether or not various reports have been made. The various reports include the fraud reports and accident reports described above.

[0069] The usage mode information indicates the usage mode of the vehicle. In this embodiment, the usage mode information indicates one of the usage modes of a sales vehicle (sold vehicle), vehicle A (partially leased vehicle), and vehicle B (fully leased vehicle).

[0070] In this embodiment, the automobile manufacturer (management center 500) provides an insurance service for vehicle body repair in addition to the insurance service for the replacement of the power storage device described above. The insurance service for vehicle body repair is a service that exempts a user who damages or breaks down a rented vehicle from at least part of their liability for compensation. Hereinafter, such insurance for vehicle body repair will also be referred to as "vehicle body insurance." In this embodiment, the user of vehicle A subscribes to battery insurance but does not subscribe to vehicle body insurance. The user of vehicle B subscribes to both battery insurance and vehicle body insurance. Because the battery insurance and vehicle body insurance are insurance for leases, users of sold vehicles do not subscribe to either battery insurance or vehicle body insurance.

[0071] The second battery information corresponds to information about the battery (second battery) installed in the vehicle. The second battery information includes a battery ID, specifications (e.g., initial capacity, charging performance, and discharging performance), and SOH.

[0072] Accident risk information corresponds to information related to the accident risk of a vehicle. The accident risk information indicates various accident factor parameters and the accident risk corresponding to those accident factor parameters. The accident risk indicates the possibility that the vehicle will be involved in an accident in the future. The lower the accident risk of a vehicle, the lower the possibility that the vehicle will be involved in an accident. Specific examples of accident factor parameters will be described later (see FIG. 7).

[0073] The deterioration risk information corresponds to information relating to the deterioration risk of the second battery. The deterioration risk information indicates various deterioration factor parameters and the deterioration risk corresponding to these deterioration factor parameters. The deterioration risk indicates the possibility that the power storage device will deteriorate in the future. The lower the deterioration risk of the power storage device, the lower the possibility that the power storage device will deteriorate. Specific examples of the deterioration factor parameters will be described later (see FIG. 7).

[0074] The fee information corresponds to information regarding the fee that a vehicle user pays to an automobile manufacturer. The fee information includes insurance premiums and lease fees. The insurance premiums include battery insurance premiums. The battery insurance premiums correspond to the fee that a vehicle user pays to receive insurance services related to battery replacement. The lease fees include battery lease fees. The battery lease fees correspond to the fee that a vehicle user pays to borrow and use a battery from the battery owner. In this embodiment, the fee is counted in points (pt). A higher number of points means a higher fee. Points may be treated like virtual currency or may be convertible into general currency (e.g., dollars, yuan, won, or yen). Points may also be convertible into goods or rights (e.g., the right to receive services commensurate with the number of points).

[0075] The leasing system according to this embodiment includes a plurality of dealers 100 (including a server 150), a plurality of BSta 200 (including a server 250), and a plurality of vehicles 10. The leasing system further includes a plurality of mobile terminals 20 carried by users of the respective vehicles 10. The management center 500 is configured to be able to communicate with each of the servers 150 of the dealers 100 installed at each base and the servers 250 of the battery stations (BSta 200) installed at each base. The management center 500 is also configured to be able to communicate with each vehicle 10 sold or leased by any of the dealers 100 and the mobile terminals 20 corresponding to each vehicle 10.

[0076] The mobile terminal 20 is configured to be portable by the user. The mobile terminal 20 is carried and operated by the user (vehicle manager) of the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, a smartphone equipped with a touch panel display is used as the mobile terminal 20. A smartphone has a built-in computer and a speaker function. However, the mobile terminal 20 is not limited to this, and any terminal that can be carried by the user of the vehicle 10 can be used as the mobile terminal 20. For example, a laptop, a tablet terminal, a portable game console, a wearable device (such as a smart watch, smart glasses, or smart gloves), or an electronic key can also be used as the mobile terminal 20.

[0077] Application software (hereinafter referred to as a "mobile app") for using services provided by the management center 500 is installed on the mobile terminal 20. The mobile app associates the identification information (terminal ID) of the mobile terminal 20 with the identification information (vehicle ID) of the corresponding vehicle 10 and registers the information in the management center 500. The mobile terminal 20 can exchange information with the management center 500 via the mobile app.

[0078] When dealer 100 sells or leases a vehicle, information about the vehicle (for example, the vehicle information shown in FIG. 4) is input to server 150. As a result, usage mode information and second battery information are stored in storage device 152 of server 150. Of the vehicle information (FIG. 4) described above, information that is initially undetermined may be set to a predetermined initial value. Thereafter, the vehicle information stored in storage device 152 is updated by a series of processes shown in FIG. 5, which will be described below. For example, for a leased vehicle, the lease fee is determined by the series of processes shown in FIG. 5.

[0079] 5 is a flowchart showing the processing executed by server 150 (dealer terminal) when a new vehicle is registered. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed when information about the new vehicle is input to server 150.

[0080] 5, in S110, server 150 stores the input vehicle information in storage device 152 and transmits it to management center 500. In S120, server 150 determines whether the battery of the vehicle is leased or not, using the usage mode information included in the vehicle information. If the vehicle is a vehicle for sale (NO in S120), the process of S130 and subsequent steps is not executed, and the series of processes shown in FIG. 5 ends. On the other hand, if the vehicle is vehicle A or vehicle B (YES in S120), the process proceeds to S130.

[0081] In S130, server 150 calculates the value of the battery installed in the vehicle based on the SOH (sate of health). In this embodiment, the battery is new (SOH=100%) at the start of the lease. However, this is not limiting, and the battery may be used (SOH<100%) at the start of the lease.

[0082] Next, in S150, the server 150 uses the above-mentioned usage type information to determine whether the vehicle is vehicle A (partially leased vehicle). If the vehicle is vehicle A (YES in S150), the server 150 determines in S161 the battery insurance premium (premium for battery insurance) and the threshold for battery replacement (hereinafter referred to as "BTh").

[0083] In detail, the server 150 determines the battery insurance premium using the accident risk and the degradation risk. The methods for calculating these risks and determining the insurance premium will be described later (see FIG. 7). Furthermore, the BTh in S161 indicates the timing of battery replacement. BTh is set so that the battery does not deteriorate excessively. BTh may be a fixed value or may be variable. In this embodiment, the server 150 sets BTh higher in S161 as the risk of battery deterioration increases. The higher the degradation risk, the faster the battery deteriorates, and the higher the BTh, the more likely it is that battery replacement will be carried out sooner. By setting BTh higher as the risk of battery deterioration increases, it is possible to prevent the battery from deteriorating too much.

[0084] After the process of S161 above, the server 150 determines the battery lease fee in S162. As will be described in detail later, the server 150 determines the battery lease fee using the battery value (S130) and the battery insurance fee (S161). Thereafter, the process proceeds to S180.

[0085] If the vehicle is vehicle B (fully leased vehicle) (NO in S150), server 150 determines the vehicle insurance premium in S171 using only the accident risk out of the accident risk and the deterioration risk. The vehicle insurance premium is, for example, the total amount of the battery insurance premium and the vehicle body insurance premium (premium for vehicle body insurance). Next, server 150 determines the vehicle lease fee in S172. The vehicle lease fee is, for example, the total amount of the battery lease fee and the vehicle body lease fee. Then, the process proceeds to S180. Details of how to determine the insurance premium and lease fee will be described later (see FIG. 7).

[0086] In S180, the server 150 stores the data determined by the above-described processing in the storage device 152 and transmits it to the management center 500. Specifically, for vehicle A, the battery value, accident risk, deterioration risk, battery insurance premium, BTh (replacement threshold), and battery lease fee are transmitted. For vehicle B, the battery value, accident risk, vehicle insurance premium, and vehicle lease fee are transmitted.

[0087] 6 is a flowchart showing the process for determining the lease fee when renewing a lease contract. The process shown in this flowchart is executed by server 150 when it is time to renew the lease contract. Unless the contractor (e.g., vehicle user) requests cancellation, the contract contents (including the lease fee) for the next lease period are determined each time the target period for the lease service and insurance service (hereinafter also referred to as the "lease period") elapses, and the lease contract is automatically renewed. In this embodiment, the length of the lease period (unit period) is one month.

[0088] The server 150 determines the lease fee (including insurance premiums) for the lease period using data from the evaluation period set before the lease period through a series of processes shown in FIG. 6, which will be described below. In this embodiment, the evaluation period is the month before the lease period (the month immediately preceding the lease period). The server 150 executes the series of processes shown in FIG. 6, for example, when the lease period has elapsed and the next lease period begins. The elapsed lease period corresponds to the evaluation period for the next lease period. In the series of processes shown in FIG. 6, the vehicle rented out based on the lease contract to be renewed is referred to as the "target vehicle." The target vehicle is either vehicle A or B (FIG. 1).

[0089] Referring to FIG. 6, in S210, server 150 acquires information (vehicle information) relating to the target vehicle from management center 500 or the target vehicle based on the identification information (vehicle ID) of the target vehicle.

[0090] In the following steps S230, S250, S261, S262, S271, S272, and S280, processing equivalent to steps S130, S150, S161, S162, S171, S172, and S180 shown in Fig. 5 is executed. Specifically, in S230, server 150 determines the value of the battery installed in the target vehicle based on the current SOH (state of health). In S250, server 150 uses the usage type information to determine whether the target vehicle is vehicle A (partially leased vehicle).

[0091] If the target vehicle is vehicle A (YES in S250), server 150 determines the battery insurance premium and BTh in S261. Specifically, server 150 determines the battery insurance premium using the accident risk and deterioration risk evaluated based on the accident factor parameters and deterioration factor parameters during the evaluation period. Furthermore, server 150 increases BTh as the deterioration risk evaluated based on the deterioration factor parameters during the evaluation period increases. Next, server 150 determines the battery lease fee in S262. Then, processing proceeds to S280.

[0092] If the subject vehicle is vehicle B (fully leased vehicle) (NO in S250), server 150 determines the vehicle insurance premium in S271 using the accident risk evaluated based on the accident factor parameters for the evaluation period. Next, server 150 determines the vehicle lease fee in S272. Then, the process proceeds to S280.

[0093] In S280, the server 150 stores the data determined in S230, S261, S262, S271, and S272 in the storage device 152 and transmits the data to the management center 500, similar to S180 in FIG.

[0094] Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining a method for determining insurance premiums and lease fees. Referring to Fig. 7, maps 501 to 504, 506, and 507 are stored in storage device 152 of server 150. Server 150 also includes adder 505. Adder 505 may be realized by a program or an electronic circuit.

[0095] Map 501 includes multiple maps. One map is prepared for each accident factor parameter. Each of these maps defines a relationship in which the larger the accident factor parameter, the higher the accident risk. In the relationship defined by each map, the accident risk increases continuously or intermittently as the accident factor parameter increases. When the value of an accident factor parameter is input, each map outputs the increase in accident risk caused by that accident factor parameter. Map 501 obtains the increase in accident risk for each accident factor parameter and outputs the accident risk including all increases caused by these accident factor parameters.

[0096] In this embodiment, the accumulated driving distance or accumulated driving time of the target vehicle (hereinafter collectively referred to as the "total driving frequency"), the distance or time the target vehicle traveled in a congested environment (hereinafter collectively referred to as the "congested driving frequency"), the distance or time the target vehicle traveled in a sporty driving mode (described below) (hereinafter collectively referred to as the "sporty driving frequency"), and the distance or time the target vehicle traveled in a cold climate (hereinafter collectively referred to as the "cold climate driving frequency") are used as accident factor parameters. The total driving frequency, the congested driving frequency, the sporty driving frequency, and the cold climate driving frequency each correspond to an example of "driving data" according to the present disclosure. Map 501 outputs a lower accident risk as the total driving frequency decreases. Map 501 also outputs a lower accident risk as the congested driving frequency decreases. Map 501 also outputs a lower accident risk as the sporty driving frequency decreases. Map 501 also outputs a lower accident risk as the cold climate driving frequency decreases. The server 150 acquires the values ​​of each accident factor parameter related to the target vehicle from the management center 500 or the target vehicle.

[0097] The accident risk output from map 501 may be a value obtained by adding the increase in risk due to the accident factor parameters to the reference value of the accident risk. The reference value of the accident risk may be a standard accident risk (for example, the average value for all users) or may be "0". The accident risk output from map 501 is input to map 502. Map 502 then outputs an increase in insurance premium according to the input accident risk. Map 502 defines the relationship in which the higher the accident risk, the higher the insurance premium. Map 502 outputs a larger increase in insurance premium to adder 505 as the accident risk input from map 501 becomes higher.

[0098] Map 503 includes multiple maps. One map is prepared for each degradation factor parameter. Each of these maps defines a relationship in which the larger the degradation factor parameter, the higher the degradation risk. In the relationship defined by each map, the degradation risk increases continuously or intermittently as the degradation factor parameter increases. When the value of a degradation factor parameter is input, each map outputs the increase in degradation risk caused by that degradation factor parameter. Map 503 obtains the increase in degradation risk for each degradation factor parameter and outputs the degradation risk including all increases caused by these degradation factor parameters.

[0099] In this embodiment, the deterioration factor parameters used are the overall driving frequency, the congested driving frequency, the sporty driving frequency, and the cold climate driving frequency described above, the time the air conditioning device installed in the target vehicle operates in manual mode (described later) (hereinafter referred to as "manual air conditioning time"), and the time the SOC of the battery installed in the target vehicle is equal to or higher than a deterioration threshold (hereinafter referred to as "high SOC time"). The deterioration threshold corresponds to the lower limit of the high SOC region in which battery deterioration is accelerated. The deterioration threshold may be, for example, approximately 80%. The map 503 outputs a lower deterioration risk as the overall driving frequency decreases. The map 503 outputs a lower deterioration risk as the congested driving frequency decreases. The map 503 outputs a lower deterioration risk as the sporty driving frequency decreases. The map 503 outputs a lower deterioration risk as the cold climate driving frequency decreases. The map 503 outputs a lower deterioration risk as the manual air conditioning time decreases. The map 503 outputs a lower deterioration risk as the high SOC time decreases. The server 150 acquires the values ​​of each deterioration factor parameter related to the target vehicle from the management center 500 or the target vehicle.

[0100] The deterioration risk output from map 503 may be a value obtained by adding the risk increase due to the deterioration factor parameter to the reference value of the deterioration risk. The reference value of the deterioration risk may be a standard deterioration risk (for example, the average value for all users) or may be "0". The deterioration risk output from map 503 is input to map 504. Map 504 then outputs an insurance premium increase according to the input deterioration risk. Map 504 defines the relationship in which the higher the deterioration risk, the higher the insurance premium. Map 504 outputs a larger insurance premium increase to adder 505 as the deterioration risk input from map 503 becomes higher.

[0101] Adder 505 adds a predetermined base insurance premium, the insurance premium increase input from map 502, and the insurance premium increase input from map 504, and outputs the result to map 507 as the battery insurance premium.

[0102] When the value of the SOH (capacity maintenance rate) of the battery is input, the map 506 outputs the value of the battery according to the SOH. The map 506 defines the relationship that the lower the SOH, the lower the value of the battery. The server 150 acquires the SOH value of the battery for the target vehicle from the management center 500 or the target vehicle and inputs it to the map 506. The map 506 outputs the value of the battery according to the SOH to the map 507. In this embodiment, the server 150 evaluates the value of the battery based only on the SOH (capacity maintenance rate). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the server 150 may evaluate the value of the battery installed in the target vehicle using other information (for example, the market value of the battery) in addition to the SOH.

[0103] Map 507 defines the relationship between the battery value, the battery insurance premium, and the battery lease fee. The higher the battery value and the higher the battery insurance premium, the higher the battery lease fee that map 507 outputs. For example, map 507 adds the battery value (pt / month) input from map 506 and the battery insurance premium (pt / month) input from adder 505 and outputs the result as the battery lease fee (pt / month). In this embodiment, map 507 functions as an adder. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and map 507 may calculate the battery lease fee according to the battery value and insurance premium according to a complex relational expression including various coefficients.

[0104] In the processing shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, in S130 and S230, the server 150 uses the map 506 to determine the value of the battery according to the current SOH.

[0105] In S161 and S261, an insurance premium for the partially leased vehicle is determined. In the partially leased vehicle according to this embodiment, the battery is replaced whenever it deteriorates, and the vehicle is used for a long period of time. The battery may be replaced before (e.g., immediately before) the battery deteriorates to the extent that it would be difficult to reuse the replaced battery. Alternatively, the battery may be replaced before (e.g., immediately before) the battery deteriorates to the extent that it would be difficult to continue using the battery. Battery replacement may also be necessary due to an accident. For example, when a vehicle passes over an object placed on the road, the object may hit a battery located under the vehicle (e.g., under the floor), damaging the battery. In S161 and S261, the server 150 uses maps 501 to 504 and an adder 505 to determine a battery insurance premium according to the risk of an accident and the risk of deterioration. More specifically, in S261, the server 150 inputs the values ​​of the accident factor parameters (e.g., total driving frequency, congested driving frequency, sporty driving frequency, and cold weather driving frequency) for the evaluation period into map 501, and inputs the values ​​of the degradation factor parameters (e.g., total driving frequency, congested driving frequency, sporty driving frequency, cold weather driving frequency, manual air conditioning time, and high SOC time) for the evaluation period into map 503, thereby obtaining the battery insurance premium to be paid by the user for the next lease period. However, at the start of the lease, the target vehicle does not have accumulated driving data and battery data for calculating the accident risk and degradation risk. Therefore, in S161, the server 150 may obtain the battery insurance premium using historical data (accident factor parameters and degradation factor parameters) of another vehicle previously used by the user of the target vehicle. Alternatively, the server 150 may set each of the accident risk and degradation risk to the aforementioned reference value and obtain the battery insurance premium from the set accident risk and degradation risk.

[0106] In S162 and S262, the battery lease fee for the partially leased vehicle is determined. In S162 and S262, the server 150 uses the map 507 to determine the battery lease fee according to the value of the battery and the battery insurance fee.

[0107] In S171 and S271, the insurance premium for the fully leased vehicle is determined. In this embodiment, the fully leased vehicle is returned to its owner (e.g., the automobile manufacturer) before the battery deteriorates to the extent that it would interfere with continued use. However, an accident may require the battery to be replaced. In S171 and S271, the server 150 obtains the battery insurance premium using the accident risk and determines the vehicle insurance premium by adding the vehicle body insurance premium to the obtained battery insurance premium. The vehicle body insurance premium may be a fixed amount or may vary depending on the accident risk. In S171 and S271, the server 150 determines the battery insurance premium without using the deterioration risk. More specifically, in S271, the server 150 obtains the battery insurance premium to be paid by the user for the next lease period by inputting the values ​​of the accident factor parameters for the evaluation period into the map 501. In S171, the server 150 may obtain the accident risk at the start of the lease using a method similar to that of S161 described above.

[0108] In S172 and S272, the lease fee for the fully leased vehicle is determined. In S172 and S272, the server 150 uses the map 507 to obtain a battery lease fee based on the battery value and the battery insurance fee, and determines the vehicle lease fee by adding the vehicle lease fee to the obtained battery lease fee. The vehicle lease fee may be the sum of the vehicle value and the vehicle insurance fee. The server 150 may calculate the vehicle value, for example, by subtracting the value of the battery in its initial state from the market appraisal value of the vehicle.

[0109] In this embodiment, not only the server 150 (dealer terminal) but also the management center 500 has the maps shown in FIG. 7. These maps are stored in the storage device 520. Each map shown in FIG. 7 may be any map that defines the relationship between input values ​​and output values ​​and may be expressed as a mathematical formula. The management center 500 may be configured to update the maps 502, 504, and 507 of each of the multiple dealers 100 by communicating with each dealer 100. This allows the automobile manufacturer (insurer) to easily revise insurance premiums. The management center 500 may simultaneously update the maps for all dealers 100 within its jurisdiction so that all dealers 100 within its jurisdiction use the same map (common map). Furthermore, when changing the base insurance premium, the management center 500 may transmit the new base insurance premium to each dealer 100.

[0110] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of vehicle 10. Referring to FIG. 8, vehicle 10 includes a vehicle body 11 and a battery 12. Vehicle 10 is configured to be able to travel using power stored in battery 12. Vehicle 10 is, for example, a BEV that does not include an internal combustion engine. A known vehicle power storage device (for example, a liquid secondary battery, an all-solid-state secondary battery, or a battery pack) can be used as battery 12. Examples of vehicle secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries and nickel-metal hydride batteries. Battery 12 is also provided with a BMS (Battery Management System) 12a that detects the state of battery 12. Battery 12 corresponds to an example of a "power storage device" according to the present disclosure.

[0111] The vehicle body 11 includes an electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as "ECU (Electronic Control Unit)") 111, a group of sensors 112, a communication device 113, an HMI (Human Machine Interface) 114, an MG (Motor Generator) 115, a charger 116, and an air conditioning unit (hereinafter referred to as "air conditioner") 117.

[0112] The ECU 111 may be a microcomputer equipped with a processor, RAM (Random Access Memory), and a storage device. The sensor group 112 includes various sensors (e.g., a position sensor, a vehicle speed sensor, an accelerator sensor, an odometer, and an outside air temperature sensor) mounted on the vehicle body 11. The detected values ​​of these sensors are input to the ECU 111. The ECU 111 also acquires the state of the battery 12 (e.g., temperature, current, voltage, SOC, and SOH) based on the output of the BMS 12a. The vehicle information acquired by the ECU 111 is stored in the storage device.

[0113] The ECU 111 has a timing function and measures the aforementioned accumulated driving time, driving time in a congested environment, driving time in a sports driving mode, driving time in a cold climate, manual air conditioning time, and high SOC time in real time, and sequentially records the measured parameter values ​​in a storage device in association with the time. The ECU 111 also measures the driving distance (e.g., the aforementioned accumulated driving distance, driving distance in a congested environment, driving distance in a sports driving mode, and driving distance in a cold climate) in real time using an odometer and sequentially records the measured parameter values ​​in association with the time in a storage device. Driving in a congested environment may be driving during rush hour. The ECU 111 may determine whether the vehicle 10 is driving during rush hour based on whether the vehicle 10 is driving during a predetermined time period (a time period during which rush hour traffic occurs). Furthermore, the ECU 111 may measure the degree of congestion in the environment in which the vehicle 10 is traveling (for example, the number of other vehicles per unit distance or the time it takes for the vehicle 10 to travel a unit distance), and determine whether the vehicle 10 is traveling in a congested environment based on whether the measured degree of congestion is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. The ECU 111 may also determine whether the vehicle 10 is traveling in a cold region based on the outside air temperature or the battery temperature.

[0114] The communication device 113 includes a communication I / F (interface) for accessing the communication network NW via wireless communication. The communication device 113 may include a TCU (Telematics Control Unit) and / or a DCM (Data Communication Module) for performing wireless communication. The communication device 113 further includes a communication I / F for performing wireless communication with each of the server 250 ( FIG. 2 ) and the mobile terminal 20. The ECU 111 is configured to communicate with each of the management center 500, the server 250, and the mobile terminal 20 through the communication device 113. The ECU 111 may also communicate with the server 150 through the communication device 113.

[0115] The HMI 114 includes an input device and a display device. The input device accepts input from a user. The input device may include an operation panel. The HMI 114 may include a touch panel display. In this embodiment, the HMI 114 includes a meter panel. The HMI 114 may further include a navigation system and a head-up display. The HMI 114 may include a smart speaker that accepts voice input.

[0116] The MG 115 functions as a traction motor. In a power running state, the MG 115 drives the drive wheels of the vehicle 10 using electric power from the battery 12, and in a power generating state, the MG 115 regeneratively charges the battery 12. The charger 116 functions as a charger for externally charging the battery 12 (i.e., charging the battery 12 with electric power from outside the vehicle). The MG 115 and the charger 116 are controlled by the ECU 111.

[0117] The air conditioner 117 is configured to condition (e.g., adjust the temperature) the interior of the vehicle 10. The air conditioner 117 is configured to be operable in a manual mode and an automatic mode. The manual mode is a mode in which the air conditioner 117 operates according to a user operation. The automatic mode is a mode in which the ECU 111 controls the air conditioner 117 regardless of a user operation. In the automatic mode, the air conditioner 117 is controlled to improve, for example, the electricity efficiency (power consumption rate). The air conditioner 117 switches between these modes according to an input from the user. However, if the user requests the air conditioner 117 to operate in the manual mode, the air conditioner 117 transmits a signal indicating this to the ECU 111. Then, the air conditioner 117 operates in the manual mode only when the ECU 111 permits operation in the manual mode (see S77 in FIG. 11 described later).

[0118] The vehicle 10 is configured to be able to run in a standard mode, an eco driving mode, and a sport driving mode. The ECU 111 switches the driving mode in response to, for example, input from a user. The eco driving mode is a driving mode in which the MG 115 is controlled by prioritizing electricity consumption over rapid acceleration. The sport driving mode is a driving mode in which the MG 115 is controlled by prioritizing rapid acceleration over electricity consumption. The standard mode is a driving mode in which the MG 115 is controlled while balancing rapid acceleration and electricity consumption. The eco driving mode has better electricity consumption but poorer rapid acceleration than the standard mode. The sport driving mode has better rapid acceleration but poorer electricity consumption than the standard mode. In the sport driving mode, it becomes easier to increase the output power of the MG 115.

[0119] In this embodiment, the HMI 114 and the mobile terminal 20 each function as a user terminal of the vehicle 10. While the vehicle system (a control system including the ECU 111) is operating, the meter panel (HMI 114) of the vehicle 10 always displays, for example, a screen Sc1. The screen Sc1 includes display sections M10, M21 to M25, and M30. The display section M10 displays information related to the battery 12.

[0120] Display section M10 includes section M11 that displays the usage form (e.g., leasing) of battery 12, section M12 that displays this month's lease fee, and sections M13 and M14 that display the current SOC and temperature, respectively, of battery 12. If the usage form of battery 12 is leasing, identification information of the owner of battery 12 (e.g., the name of the automobile manufacturer) is also displayed in section M11.

[0121] Display unit M21 displays the current driving mode of vehicle 10. Display unit M22 displays the current vehicle speed of vehicle 10. Display unit M23 displays the average daily mileage of vehicle 10 for this month. Display unit M24 displays the average daily mileage (recommended mileage) recommended by management center 500. The recommended mileage will be described later (see FIGS. 11 and 12). Display unit M25 displays the accumulated mileage of vehicle 10 for this month. Display unit M30 displays factors that are increasing the lease fee for vehicle 10. In the example shown in FIG. 8, there are no factors that would increase the lease fee, so display unit M30 displays this fact. The state of display unit M30 when there is a factor that would increase the lease fee will be described later (see FIGS. 11 and 12). If the usage form of battery 12 is user-owned (i.e., not leased), the meter panel may display screen Sc1 in which display units M24, M30, and portion M12 are omitted.

[0122] When the management center 500 receives information about the vehicle 10 from the server 150 through the processing of S110 and S180 in FIG. 5 or S280 in FIG. 6, it transmits battery information including the usage pattern and the lease fee to the vehicle 10. In this manner, the management center 500 notifies the vehicle 10 of the determined lease fee. Then, when the vehicle 10 receives the notification, the user terminal (e.g., HMI 114) of the vehicle 10 displays the determined lease fee. In detail, the lease fee is displayed in section M12 shown in FIG. 8.

[0123] Furthermore, the management center 500 repeatedly executes a series of processes S51 to S59 in FIG. 9, which will be described below, for each vehicle A (partially leased vehicle). In the series of processes shown in FIG. 9, the vehicle A to be processed is referred to as the "target vehicle." The lease fee for the target vehicle (partially leased vehicle) corresponds to the battery lease fee.

[0124] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing control for suppressing a rise in the lease fee in the method for leasing an electricity storage device according to this embodiment.

[0125] 1, 4, 8, and FIG. 9, in S51, the management center 500 acquires the SOH, accident factor parameters, and degradation factor parameters of the target vehicle for the period from the start of the evaluation period to the present time (hereinafter referred to as the "intermediate period") from the vehicle information (FIG. 4) stored in the storage device 520. Next, in S52, the management center 500 assumes that the target vehicle will be used for the remainder of the evaluation period (i.e., the period from the present time to the end of the evaluation period) in the same manner as during the intermediate period, and predicts the battery value, accident risk, and degradation risk at the end of the evaluation period from the SOH, accident factor parameters, and degradation factor parameters acquired in S51. Then, in S53, the management center 500 predicts the lease fee for the next lease period (in this embodiment, the lease fee for the next month) from the predicted battery value, accident risk, and degradation risk using the maps shown in FIG. 7. Next, in S54, the management center 500 transmits the predicted lease fee (i.e., the next lease fee) to the target vehicle.

[0126] Next, in S55, the management center 500 determines whether the predicted lease fee is equal to or greater than a predetermined base fee. The predetermined base fee is, for example, the same amount as the lease fee for the current lease period (in this embodiment, this month's lease fee) or an amount equal to or greater than the predetermined base fee. If the predicted lease fee is equal to or greater than the predetermined base fee (YES in S55), in S56, a signal indicating advice on lowering the lease fee (hereinafter also referred to as an "advice signal") is sent to the target vehicle, and then processing proceeds to S57. On the other hand, if the predicted lease fee is less than the predetermined base fee (NO in S55), no advice signal is sent and processing proceeds to S57.

[0127] In S57, the management center 500 determines whether the SOH (satellite maintenance rate) of the battery mounted on the target vehicle has become equal to or less than BTh. BTh is determined in S161 of FIG. 5 and updated in S261 of FIG. 6.

[0128] If the SOH of the battery is equal to or lower than BTh (YES in S57), the management center 500 sends a notification (hereinafter referred to as a "replacement notification") to the target vehicle in S58, urging the target vehicle to replace the battery through insurance service. Next, in S59, the management center 500 sends a signal (hereinafter also referred to as a "restriction signal") to the target vehicle to restrict the use of the battery installed in the target vehicle. In the target vehicle that receives the restriction signal, the use of the battery is restricted. This suppresses the progression of battery deterioration. In this embodiment, while the target vehicle is receiving the restriction signal, the battery installed in the target vehicle cannot output power (kW) exceeding a predetermined value (for example, the upper limit value indicated by the restriction signal).

[0129] Once the process of S59 is executed, the process returns to the first step (S51). The processes of S58 and S59 are continuously executed while the battery SOH is equal to or lower than BTh. If the battery SOH is higher than BTh (NO in S57), the processes of S58 and S59 are not executed, and the process returns to the first step (S51). If the battery in the target vehicle is replaced, the battery SOH becomes higher than BTh, so the processes of S58 and S59 are no longer executed, and the battery usage restriction (S59) is lifted. In this way, when the battery capacity maintenance rate falls below the predetermined threshold (BTh), the management center 500 restricts the battery control by the target vehicle to protect the battery, and lifts the restriction on control when the battery replacement in the target vehicle is completed. The restriction signal (S59) may prohibit charging (rapid charging) of a battery whose charging power (kW) exceeds a predetermined value, in addition to or instead of the output restriction described above.

[0130] A series of processes from S61 to S66 is repeatedly executed by the ECU 111 of the target vehicle (FIG. 8). In S61, the target vehicle determines whether or not it has received the predicted lease fee (S54). If the target vehicle receives the predicted lease fee (YES in S61), the process proceeds to S62. In S62, the target vehicle notifies the user of the predicted lease fee. In the following S63, the target vehicle determines whether or not it has received an advice signal (S56). If the target vehicle has received the advice signal (YES in S63), the target vehicle notifies the user of the advice indicated by the advice signal in S64. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S65. On the other hand, if the lease fee predicted by the management center 500 is sufficiently low (NO in S55), the target vehicle does not receive the advice signal (NO in S63). In this case, the process proceeds to S65 without executing the process of S64.

[0131] In S65, it is determined whether the target vehicle has received a replacement notification (S58). If the target vehicle has received the replacement notification (YES in S65), then in S66, the target vehicle prompts the user to replace the battery through a predetermined notification process. Thereafter, the process returns to the first step (S61). On the other hand, if the SOH of the battery installed in the target vehicle is sufficiently high (NO in S57), the target vehicle has not received the replacement notification (NO in S65). In this case, the process of S66 is not executed, and the process returns to the first step (S61).

[0132] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the above-mentioned notification process (S62, S64, and S66 in FIG. 9). Referring to FIG. 10, when the target vehicle receives the next lease fee (S54 in FIG. 9) from the management center 500, the ECU 111 of the target vehicle displays screen Sc2 on the user terminal (e.g., mobile terminal 20) of the target vehicle. In the example shown in FIG. 10, screen Sc2 includes a display section M41 that displays the next lease fee and a display section M42 that displays advice presented by an advice signal. However, if the target vehicle does not receive an advice signal, the user terminal displays screen Sc2 from which display section M42 is omitted.

[0133] In this embodiment, when the next lease fee is predicted to be high (YES in S55 of FIG. 9), the management center 500 notifies the target vehicle of multiple measures for reducing the lease fee, along with the amount by which the lease fee will be reduced by each measure (S56 of FIG. 9). Then, in response to the notification from the management center 500, the ECU 111 of the target vehicle instructs the mobile terminal 20 to display screen Sc2 (S64 of FIG. 9). In response to the instruction from the target vehicle, the mobile terminal 20 displays the measures for reducing the lease fee, along with a ranking of the amount by which the measures will reduce the lease fee. More specifically, the mobile terminal 20 displays the multiple measures in a ranking format in descending order of the reduction effect (see display unit M42). Each measure may be a measure for reducing accident factors or battery degradation factors of the target vehicle.

[0134] When the target vehicle receives a replacement notification from the management center 500 (S58 in FIG. 9), the ECU 111 of the target vehicle causes the user terminal (e.g., the mobile terminal 20) of the target vehicle to display, for example, screen Sc3 (S66 in FIG. 9). Screen Sc3 includes a message urging the user to replace the battery. Screen Sc3 shown in FIG. 10 notifies the user that battery use is restricted. Furthermore, screen Sc3 includes an explanation of insurance services related to battery replacement.

[0135] Each vehicle A (partially leased vehicle) registered in the management center 500 executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 11, which will be described below, in parallel with the series of processes from S61 to S66 shown in FIG.

[0136] 11 is a flowchart showing notification control executed by a partially leased vehicle in the method for leasing an electricity storage device according to this embodiment. The processing shown in this flowchart is repeatedly executed by ECU 111 of vehicle A (partially leased vehicle).

[0137] 1, 4, 8, and FIG. 11, in S71, the ECU 111 obtains the recommended distance from the management center 500. In response to a request from the partially leased vehicle, the management center 500 determines a recommended distance and transmits the recommended distance to the partially leased vehicle. Specifically, the management center 500 determines a target distance for reducing the lease fee without excessively impairing user convenience based on the accumulated mileage during the mid-term (S51 in FIG. 9) and the predicted lease fee (S54 in FIG. 9). The target distance corresponds to the target value of the accumulated mileage at the end of the evaluation period. The management center 500 then determines and transmits a recommended distance (recommended average mileage per day) based on the target distance. When the partially leased vehicle receives the recommended distance from the management center 500, the ECU 111 causes the user terminal (e.g., HMI 114) of the partially leased vehicle to display the recommended distance. For example, the recommended distance is displayed on the display unit M24 shown in FIG. 8.

[0138] In the next step S72, the ECU 111 determines whether the user has requested a switch to the sport driving mode. The user can request the ECU 111 to change the driving mode via the input device (HMI 114). If the user has requested the ECU 111 to switch to the sport driving mode (YES in step S72), the ECU 111 acquires from the management center 500 in step S73 the predicted increase in the lease fee that would occur when the switch to the sport driving mode is executed (hereinafter also referred to as the "driving mode-attributed increase"). In response to a request from the partially leased vehicle, the management center 500 predicts the driving mode-attributed increase and transmits the predicted value to the partially leased vehicle. Then, when the partially leased vehicle receives the predicted value, the ECU 111 displays the driving mode-attributed increase (predicted value) on the user terminal (e.g., the mobile terminal 20) of the partially leased vehicle in step S74 and requests the user to input whether or not to execute a switch to the sport driving mode. The user can make the above input to the ECU 111 through the mobile terminal 20. When the user makes an input to the mobile terminal 20 to switch to the sport driving mode, the ECU 111 switches to the sport driving mode, and then the process proceeds to S75. On the other hand, when the user makes an input to the mobile terminal 20 to not switch to the sport driving mode, the process proceeds to S75 without switching to the sport driving mode.

[0139] In S75, the ECU 111 determines whether the user has requested that the air conditioner 117 be operated in manual mode. The user can request the ECU 111 to operate the air conditioner 117 or change the mode by operating the operation unit of the air conditioner 117. If the user has requested that the air conditioner 117 be operated in manual mode (YES in S75), the ECU 111 obtains from the management center 500 in S76 the increase in the lease fee that would be predicted if the air conditioner 117 were operated in manual mode (hereinafter also referred to as the "air conditioner-attributable increase"). In response to a request from the partially leased vehicle, the management center 500 predicts the air conditioner-attributable increase and transmits the predicted value to the partially leased vehicle. Then, when the partially leased vehicle receives the predicted value, the ECU 111 displays the air conditioner-attributable increase (predicted value) on the user terminal (e.g., mobile terminal 20) of the partially leased vehicle and requests the user to input whether or not to operate the air conditioner 117 in manual mode (S77). The user can make the above input to the ECU 111 through the mobile terminal 20. When the user makes an input to the mobile terminal 20 to operate the air conditioner 117 in manual mode, the ECU 111 operates the air conditioner 117 in manual mode, and then the process proceeds to S78. On the other hand, when the user makes an input to the mobile terminal 20 to not operate the air conditioner 117 in manual mode, the process proceeds to S78 without operating the air conditioner 117 in manual mode.

[0140] In S78, ECU 111 determines whether any factors that increase the lease fee (lease fee increase factors) exist in the partially leased vehicle. ECU 111 of the partially leased vehicle according to this embodiment considers factors that increase the vehicle's accident risk (accident risk factors) and factors that increase the risk of battery degradation (degradation risk factors) as factors that increase the lease fee. Accident risk factors include at least one of (e.g., all of) driving in congested environments, driving in a sporty driving mode, and driving in cold climates. Degradation risk factors include maintaining the battery in a state where the SOC is equal to or greater than the degradation threshold (hereinafter also referred to as "leaving the battery at a high SOC"), operating the air conditioner in manual mode, driving in congested environments, driving in a sporty driving mode, and driving in cold climates (e.g., all of).

[0141] If the partially leased vehicle has a factor that would increase the lease fee (YES in S78), the ECU 111 displays the factor on the user terminal (e.g., HMI 114) of the partially leased vehicle in S79. For example, the factor is displayed on the display unit M30 shown in FIG. 8. Then, the process returns to the first step (S71). On the other hand, if the partially leased vehicle does not have a factor that would increase the lease fee (NO in S78), the process of S79 is not executed and the process returns to the first step (S71).

[0142] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of notification by the processing shown in FIG. 11. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the latest recommended distance is displayed on the display part M24 of the screen Sc1 by the processing of S71 in FIG. 11. Then, by the processing of S74 in FIG. 11, the mobile terminal 20 displays, for example, the screen Sc4. The screen Sc4 displays the increase (predicted value) caused by the driving mode. Furthermore, the screen Sc4 displays a message requesting the user to input whether or not to switch to the sport driving mode. The screen Sc4 includes an operation part M51 that accepts an input to switch to the sport driving mode, and an operation part M52 that accepts an input to not switch to the sport driving mode.

[0143] When the user operates the operation unit M52, the mode is not switched to the sport driving mode. On the other hand, when the user operates the operation unit M51, the mode is switched to the sport driving mode. Furthermore, when the mode is switched to the sport driving mode, the process of S79 in FIG. 11 adds driving in the sport driving mode as a lease fee increase factor to the display unit M30 of the screen Sc1. Furthermore, the process of S79 in FIG. 11 also displays other lease fee increase factors that exist for the partially leased vehicle on the display unit M30.

[0144] As described above, the method for leasing a power storage device according to this embodiment includes the processes shown in FIGS. 3, 5, 6, 9, and 11. In this embodiment, each process is performed by one or more processors executing a program stored in one or more memories. However, these processes may also be performed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuits) rather than software. In this embodiment, the server 150 and the management center 500 work together to function as an example of a "computer device" according to the present disclosure.

[0145] More specifically, in each of S130 in Fig. 5 and S230 in Fig. 6, server 150 determines the value of a power storage device for a vehicle equipped with the power storage device using the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device. In each of S161 and S171 in Fig. 5 and S261 and S271 in Fig. 6, server 150 determines the insurance premium for the vehicle user to receive insurance service related to the replacement of the power storage device using the accident risk of the vehicle. In each of S162 and S172 in Fig. 5 and S262 and S272 in Fig. 6, server 150 determines the lease fee for the power storage device using the value of the power storage device and the insurance premium.

[0146] In the above leasing method, the value of the power storage device is calculated based on the capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device, making it easier to accurately evaluate the value of the power storage device. Furthermore, in the above leasing method, the lease fee for the power storage device includes not only the fee paid by the user for the power storage device (i.e., the fee based on the value of the power storage device), but also the insurance premium paid by the user to receive insurance services. In the above leasing method, the insurance premium is determined using the accident risk of the vehicle. If a vehicle is involved in an accident, there is a high possibility that the power storage device installed in the vehicle will need to be replaced, so determining the insurance premium based on the accident risk makes it easier to accurately evaluate the insurance premium. In this way, the above leasing method makes it possible to accurately determine the lease fee for the power storage device in a leasing service that not only simply rents out power storage devices for vehicles but also rents them out with added value.

[0147] In the power storage device leasing method according to this embodiment, when the vehicle body excluding the power storage device is owned by the user and the power storage device is provided to the user through leasing (YES in S150 of FIG. 5 or S250 of FIG. 6), server 150 determines the insurance premium through first insurance premium determination processing in S161 of FIG. 5 or S261 of FIG. 6. The first insurance premium determination processing is processing for determining the insurance premium using the accident risk of the vehicle and the deterioration risk of the power storage device. On the other hand, when both the vehicle body and the power storage device are provided to the user through leasing (NO in S150 of FIG. 5 or S250 of FIG. 6), server 150 determines the insurance premium through second insurance premium determination processing in S171 of FIG. 5 or S271 of FIG. 6. The second insurance premium determination processing is processing for determining the insurance premium using only the accident risk out of the accident risk and the deterioration risk.

[0148] For partially leased vehicles, because vehicle accidents and deterioration of the power storage device are the main causes of power storage device replacement, determining the insurance premium based on both accident risk and deterioration risk as described above makes it easier to determine the insurance premium appropriately. Furthermore, for fully leased vehicles, because vehicle accidents are the main cause of power storage device replacement, determining the insurance premium based on accident risk without considering deterioration risk as described above makes it easier to determine the insurance premium appropriately. In this way, the above-described method makes it easier to determine the insurance premium appropriately for both partially leased vehicles and fully leased vehicles.

[0149] In each of S261 and S271 of FIG. 6, the server 150 evaluates the accident risk using vehicle driving data (e.g., overall driving frequency, congestion driving frequency, sport driving frequency, and cold weather driving frequency) for the evaluation period set before the target period of the insurance service, and determines the insurance premium for the target period using the accident risk evaluated for the evaluation period (see FIG. 7). Also, in S261 of FIG. 6, the server 150 determines the insurance premium for the target period using the accident risk and deterioration risk evaluated for the evaluation period. The server 150 evaluates the accident risk using the overall driving frequency. Specifically, the server 150 evaluates that the longer the vehicle's driving distance or driving time during the evaluation period, the higher the accident risk. The server 150 also evaluates the deterioration risk using the high SOC time and cold weather driving frequency. Specifically, the server 150 evaluates that the longer the remaining charge of the power storage device is above a predetermined value during the evaluation period, the higher the deterioration risk. The server 150 evaluates that the longer the vehicle's driving distance or time in cold weather during the evaluation period, the higher the deterioration risk.

[0150] In the above leasing method, the use of vehicle driving data from an evaluation period set before the insurance service period facilitates accurate assessment of accident risk. Furthermore, the longer the remaining charge of the power storage device is above a predetermined value during the evaluation period, the higher the risk of deterioration is assessed, making it easier to accurately assess the risk of deterioration. Furthermore, the longer the distance or time the vehicle has traveled in cold regions during the evaluation period, the higher the risk of deterioration is assessed, making it easier to accurately assess the risk of deterioration. This method facilitates appropriate determination of insurance premiums based on at least one of the assessed accident risk and deterioration risk.

[0151] The processing flows shown in Figures 3, 5, 6, 9, and 11 can be modified as appropriate. For example, the order of processing may be changed or unnecessary steps may be omitted depending on the purpose. Furthermore, the content of any of the processing may be changed. For example, the management center 500 may send each notification shown in Figure 9 to the user terminal of the vehicle in addition to or instead of the vehicle.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the length of the lease period (unit period) is one month. However, this is not limited to this, and the unit period can be set arbitrarily, and may be a period longer than one month (for example, three months, six months, or one year). The evaluation period can also be changed as appropriate. For example, the entire past insurance subscription period may be used as the evaluation period to determine the lease fee (including insurance premium) for the next lease period (for example, the following month). Furthermore, the replacement requirements (S21 in FIG. 3) are not limited to the requirements described above and can be changed as appropriate. The exclusion requirements are also not limited to the requirements described above and can be set arbitrarily.

[0153] The display contents of screens Sc1 to Sc4 can also be changed as appropriate. For example, the display section M24 of screen Sc1 may display the average driving time per day (recommended time) recommended by the management center 500 instead of the recommended distance. The user terminal that displays each screen can also be changed as appropriate. For example, instead of a meter panel, a head-up display may display screen Sc1.

[0154] The server 150 or the management center 500 may function alone as the "computer device" according to the present disclosure. For example, the functions of the management center 500 may be implemented in the server 150. Alternatively, the functions of the server 150 may be implemented in the management center 500. In the above embodiment, the server 150 (dealer terminal) executes the processes shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. However, this is not limiting, and the management center 500 may be configured to execute the processes shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 instead of the server 150. Alternatively, the server 250 may be configured to function as the "computer device" according to the present disclosure.

[0155] In this embodiment, the management center 500, the server 150, and the server 250 are all on-premise servers. However, this is not limiting, and the functions of each server may be implemented on the cloud by cloud computing. That is, these servers may be cloud servers. The location where the leasing service is provided is not limited to the dealer 100. For example, the management center 500 may provide the leasing service online (e.g., on the cloud).

[0156] The vehicle for which the battery is leased may be an xEV (electric vehicle) other than a BEV. The vehicle may be equipped with an internal combustion engine (e.g., a gasoline engine, a biofuel engine, or a hydrogen engine). The vehicle is not limited to a four-wheeled passenger car, but may be a bus or truck, or a three-wheeled xEV. The vehicle may be equipped with solar panels. The vehicle may be configured to be capable of inductive charging. The vehicle may be configured to be capable of autonomous driving or may have a flying function. The vehicle may be an unmanned vehicle (e.g., a robotaxi, an automated guided vehicle (AGV), or agricultural machinery).

[0157] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the description of the above embodiments, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0158] 10 vehicles, 11 body parts, 12 batteries, 20 mobile terminals, 100 dealers, 111 ECUs, 114 HMIs, 150 servers, 200 battery stations, 250 servers, 500 management centers.

Claims

1. a computer device determining a value of a power storage device for a vehicle equipped with the power storage device using a capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device; the computer device evaluates an accident risk of the vehicle using driving data of the vehicle during an evaluation period set before a target period of insurance service related to the replacement of the power storage device; The computer device determines an insurance premium for the user of the vehicle to receive the insurance service during the target period such that the higher the accident risk, the higher the insurance premium becomes; the computer device determines a lease fee for the power storage device during the target period such that the higher the value of the power storage device, the higher the lease fee, and the higher the insurance premium, the higher the lease fee; A method for leasing an electricity storage device, comprising:

2. The method for leasing a power storage device described in claim 1, wherein the driving data includes the cumulative driving distance or cumulative driving time of the vehicle, and the distance or time driven by the vehicle in a congested environment.

3. Determining the insurance premiums a first insurance premium determination process in which the computer device determines the insurance premium using the accident risk of the vehicle and the deterioration risk of the power storage device so that the insurance premium becomes higher as the accident risk becomes higher and the deterioration risk becomes higher; a second insurance premium determination process in which the computer device determines the insurance premium using only the accident risk out of the accident risk and the deterioration risk so that the insurance premium increases as the accident risk increases; Including, The lease method is as follows: when the vehicle body portion of the vehicle excluding the power storage device is owned by the user and the power storage device is provided to the user through leasing, the computer device determines the insurance premium through the first insurance premium determination process; when both the vehicle body part and the power storage device are provided to the user through leasing, the computer device determines the insurance premium through the second insurance premium determination process; The method for leasing an electricity storage device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

4. Determining the insurance premium by the first insurance premium determination process includes: the computer device evaluates that the longer the travel distance or travel time of the vehicle during the evaluation period, the higher the accident risk; the computer device evaluates that the risk of deterioration is higher as the time during the evaluation period during which the remaining amount of stored power of the power storage device is equal to or greater than a predetermined value is longer; the computer device evaluates that the longer the distance or time that the vehicle has traveled in a cold region during the evaluation period, the higher the deterioration risk; The computer device determines the insurance premium for the target period using the accident risk and the deterioration risk evaluated for the evaluation period; The method for leasing an electricity storage device according to claim 3 , comprising:

5. 1. A computing device comprising one or more processors and one or more storage devices, The one or more storage devices For a vehicle equipped with a power storage device, determining a value of the power storage device using a capacity maintenance rate of the power storage device; assessing an accident risk of the vehicle using driving data of the vehicle during an evaluation period set before a target period of insurance service related to the replacement of the power storage device; determining an insurance premium for the user of the vehicle to receive the insurance service during the target period such that the higher the accident risk, the higher the insurance premium; determining a lease fee for the power storage device during the target period such that the higher the value of the power storage device, the higher the lease fee; and the higher the insurance premium, the higher the lease fee; a computer device storing a program that causes the one or more processors to execute the above.

6. The computer device a first insurance premium determination process for determining the insurance premium using the accident risk of the vehicle and the deterioration risk of the power storage device such that the insurance premium becomes higher as the accident risk increases and the deterioration risk increases; a second insurance premium determination process for determining the insurance premium using only the accident risk out of the accident risk and the deterioration risk so that the insurance premium increases as the accident risk increases; is configured to be executable, The computer device determining the insurance premium by the first insurance premium determination process when the vehicle body portion of the vehicle excluding the power storage device is owned by the user and the power storage device is provided to the user through leasing; when both the vehicle body part and the power storage device are provided to the user through leasing, the insurance premium is determined by the second insurance premium determination process; The computer device acquiring the accident risk based on a plurality of accident factor parameters included in the driving data; The deterioration risk is acquired based on a plurality of deterioration factor parameters; The one or more storage devices a plurality of first maps corresponding to the plurality of accident factor parameters; a plurality of second maps corresponding to the plurality of deterioration factor parameters; Each of the plurality of first maps defines a relationship in which the larger the corresponding accident factor parameter, the higher the accident risk, and when a value of the corresponding accident factor parameter is input, an increase in the accident risk caused by the corresponding accident factor parameter is output; 6. The computer device according to claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of second maps defines a relationship in which the risk of deterioration increases as the corresponding deterioration factor parameter increases, and when a value of the corresponding deterioration factor parameter is input, an increase in the risk of deterioration caused by the corresponding deterioration factor parameter is output.

7. A computer device according to claim 5; a user terminal of the vehicle, the computer device is configured to notify the vehicle or the user terminal of the determined lease fee, measures to reduce the lease fee, and an amount by which the lease fee will be reduced by the measures; The user terminal is configured to display the lease fee, the measures for reducing the lease fee, and a ranking of the amount by which the measures will reduce the lease fee.

8. A system comprising: the computer device according to claim 5; and a server that controls an exchange device configured to be able to exchange an electric storage device mounted on a vehicle, the one or more storage devices store information about a plurality of vehicles, distinguishing them by identification information of each vehicle; The plurality of vehicles include at least one of partially leased vehicles and fully leased vehicles rented to users who have paid the lease fee including the insurance premium, The partially leased vehicle is a vehicle whose body excluding an electricity storage device is owned by the user, and the electricity storage device is provided to the user through a lease, The fully leased vehicle is a vehicle in which both the vehicle body and the power storage device are provided to the user through leasing, the server is configured, when a request for replacement of the power storage device is received from the target vehicle, which is the partially leased vehicle or the fully leased vehicle, to determine whether or not predetermined replacement requirements are met based on information acquired from the computer device; The replacement requirement is met when the computer device receives a notification that the target vehicle has been involved in an accident; The server If the replacement requirements are met, the replacement device performs replacement of the power storage device of the target vehicle; The power storage device leasing system is configured not to replace the power storage device of the target vehicle if the replacement requirement is not met.

9. A system comprising the computer device according to claim 5 and a user terminal of the vehicle, The computer device notifies the vehicle or the user terminal to encourage the replacement of the storage device through the insurance service when the capacity maintenance rate of the storage device falls below a predetermined threshold.

10. 10. The energy storage device leasing system according to claim 9, wherein the computer device limits control of the energy storage device by the vehicle to protect the energy storage device when the capacity maintenance rate of the energy storage device becomes equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, and releases the control limit when replacement of the energy storage device in the vehicle is completed.

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