Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To Provide an information processing apparatus, method, and program for reducing the risk of selecting an electric vehicle that does not meet performance requirements for a user's use of the electric vehicle.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus 1b comprises: a driving data acquisition unit 136 for acquiring driving data; a storage unit 12 for storing electricity cost information and battery capacity of an electric vehicle for each electric vehicle, and storing predictive parameters for each use of the electric vehicle; a driving distance specifying unit 133 for calculating the expected electricity cost that is expected when a candidate vehicle drives through location history based on the electricity cost information of the candidate vehicle and the predictive parameters of the electric vehicle corresponding to the use of a managed vehicle, calculating a driving reference distance, which is a reference driving distance required for the candidate vehicle, based on the driving data, and calculating the possible driving distance at maximum charging based on the estimated electricity cost and the battery capacity corresponding to the candidate vehicle; and a display processing unit 134 for displaying presentation information based on the driving reference distance and the estimated possible driving distance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, an increasing number of users are switching from gasoline-powered vehicles to electric vehicles. Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for managing information on vehicle performance, equipment, etc. listed in a catalog or the like (hereinafter referred to as "catalog information"). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-132889 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] By referring to the catalog information, users can understand the performance of the electric vehicle they are considering switching to. However, the performance of an electric vehicle can vary depending on the user's intended use of the vehicle. Therefore, if a user were to select an electric vehicle based on the catalog information, there is a high risk that the user will select an electric vehicle that does not meet the performance requirements for the intended use.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of these points, and aims to, for example, reduce the risk of selecting an electric vehicle that does not meet the performance required for the user's vehicle application. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device of a first aspect of the present invention has an acquisition unit that acquires driving data indicating the location history of drives of managed vehicles managed by a user over a predetermined period of time; a memory unit that stores, for each electric vehicle, electricity consumption information and battery capacity of the electric vehicle, and stores, for each use of the electric vehicle, prediction parameters for predicting the electricity consumption of the electric vehicle when driven in the intended use of the electric vehicle; a first calculation unit that calculates an estimated electricity consumption that is expected when the candidate vehicle drives along the location history based on the electricity consumption information of a candidate vehicle that is a candidate electric vehicle to be presented to the user and the prediction parameters of the electric vehicle that corresponds to the use of the managed vehicle; a second calculation unit that calculates a reference driving distance that serves as a reference for the driving distance required of the candidate vehicle based on the driving data; a third calculation unit that calculates a possible driving distance at maximum charge based on the estimated electricity consumption calculated by the first calculation unit and the battery capacity corresponding to the candidate vehicle; and a display processing unit that displays presentation information based on the reference driving distance and the possible driving distance on a display device.

[0007] The storage unit may further store the prediction parameters determined for each vehicle type of the electric vehicle, and the first calculation unit may further calculate the estimated electricity consumption based on the prediction parameters corresponding to the vehicle type of the candidate vehicle.

[0008] The information processing device may further have an identification unit that identifies the use of the managed vehicle based on the driving data, and the first calculation unit may calculate the estimated electricity consumption based on the predicted parameters of the electric vehicle that correspond to the use of the managed vehicle identified by the identification unit.

[0009] The second calculation unit may calculate a driving distance at maximum charge for each of the plurality of candidate vehicles based on the electricity cost information for each of the plurality of candidate vehicles and the battery capacity corresponding to each of the plurality of candidate vehicles, and the display processing unit may display, as the presentation information, a candidate vehicle among the plurality of candidate vehicles whose driving distance is equal to or greater than the reference driving distance.

[0010] The third calculation unit may further calculate a driving distance of the candidate vehicle when fully charged, based on a degree of deterioration of a battery mounted on the candidate vehicle.

[0011] The memory unit may further store candidate vehicle information including the condition of the candidate vehicle and the price of the candidate vehicle, and the display processing unit may display the candidate vehicle information corresponding to the candidate vehicle as the presented information.

[0012] The display processing unit may display, as pre-presentation information, a comparison result obtained by comparing a running cost based on the energy consumed by the management vehicle with a running cost based on the power consumed by the candidate vehicle.

[0013] The display processing unit may display the results of a comparison between the CO2 generated in response to the production of the energy consumed by the managed vehicle and the CO2 generated in response to the production of the electricity consumed by the candidate vehicle as the presentation information.

[0014] The information processing device may further include a selection unit that selects, from a plurality of electric vehicles, an electric vehicle that satisfies at least some specifications of the management vehicle as the candidate vehicle.

[0015] An information processing method of a second aspect of the present invention includes the steps of: acquiring driving data indicating the location history of travels of a managed vehicle managed by a user over a predetermined period, executed by a computer; calculating an estimated electric fuel consumption expected when the candidate vehicle travels along the location history based on electric fuel consumption information of the electric vehicle stored in a memory unit for each electric vehicle, the electric fuel consumption information of the candidate vehicle being a candidate electric vehicle to be presented to the user, and prediction parameters of the electric vehicle corresponding to the intended use of the managed vehicle among prediction parameters for predicting electric fuel consumption when the electric vehicle is traveled for the intended use of the electric vehicle, stored in the memory unit for each intended use of the electric vehicle; calculating a reference driving distance that serves as a reference for the driving distance required of the candidate vehicle based on the driving data; calculating a possible driving distance at maximum charge based on the calculated estimated electric fuel consumption and a battery capacity stored in the memory unit for each electric vehicle and that corresponds to the candidate vehicle; and displaying presentation information based on the reference driving distance and the possible driving distance on a display device.

[0016] A third aspect of the program of the present invention causes a computer to function as: an acquisition unit that acquires driving data indicating the location history of drives of managed vehicles managed by a user over a predetermined period; a first calculation unit that calculates an estimated electric fuel consumption that will be expected if the candidate vehicle drives the location history based on the electric fuel consumption information of the electric vehicle stored in a memory unit for each electric vehicle and on prediction parameters for the electric vehicle that correspond to the intended use of the managed vehicle and are stored in the memory unit for each intended use of the electric vehicle; a second calculation unit that calculates a reference driving distance that serves as a reference for the driving distance required of the candidate vehicle based on the driving data; a third calculation unit that calculates a possible driving distance at maximum charge based on the estimated electric fuel consumption calculated by the first calculation unit and on a battery capacity that is stored in the memory unit for each electric vehicle and corresponds to the candidate vehicle; and a display processing unit that displays presentation information based on the reference driving distance and the possible driving distance on a display device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present invention, for example, it is possible to reduce the risk of selecting an electric vehicle that does not satisfy the performance required for the user's intended use of the electric vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of an information processing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which the information terminal displays a first distance image and a second distance image. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of performance data. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an effective coefficient for each application. [Figure 6]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which a first distance image and a second distance image are displayed after a vehicle model and application have been selected by a user. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing flow in the information processing device. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for a user to input usage conditions. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displaying a selection result. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an overview of an information processing system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a parameter management database. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen that displays presented information. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing flow in an information processing device according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] First Embodiment [Outline of Information Processing System S in the First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of an information processing system S. The information processing system S is a system for providing a user U with information about an electric vehicle that runs on a battery. The information processing system S includes an information processing device 1 and an information terminal 2. The information processing device 1 and the information terminal 2 can transmit and receive data via a network such as the Internet or an intranet. The information terminal 2 may be any display device that has a function for displaying information, such as a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer.

[0020] The information processing device 1 causes the information terminal 2 to display a distance image indicating the cruising distance (e.g., maximum possible driving distance) of an electric vehicle that is a candidate for use by a user U who wishes to use the electric vehicle. The maximum possible driving distance is the distance that can be traveled by a battery that is fully charged. The amount of power that a battery can output when fully charged changes over time or with the cumulative driving distance of the electric vehicle. Therefore, the maximum possible driving distance of an electric vehicle that runs on a battery varies depending on the passage of time, the cumulative driving distance (which has a correlation with the number of times the vehicle is charged and discharged), or the environment of the area in which the vehicle is traveling.

[0021] If the maximum mileage displayed by the information processing device 1 on the information terminal 2 is only the distance that the electric vehicle can travel when a new battery is fully charged, the user U has no choice but to determine whether the maximum mileage of the candidate electric vehicle is sufficient based on the maximum mileage. If the actual maximum mileage has decreased with the passage of time or an increase in the cumulative mileage (i.e., performance degradation has occurred), even if the user U determines that the maximum mileage of the candidate electric vehicle is sufficient, the actual maximum mileage may be shorter than the distance that the user U must travel on a single charge.

[0022] As an example, suppose that user U drives 150 km in one day's work. If the maximum driving distance of a new electric vehicle (i.e., when using a new battery with no performance degradation) is 160 km, when user U first uses the electric vehicle, if user U charges the electric vehicle before starting work for the day, user U can carry out the day's work without having to charge it midway through. However, if the maximum driving distance six years later becomes 120 km, a problem will arise in that user U will have to charge the electric vehicle midway through work for the day, even if he or she charges the electric vehicle before starting work for the day.

[0023] Therefore, the information processing device 1 displays on the information terminal 2 an image showing multiple maximum drivable distances on multiple dates, each date being a different number of days since a new battery was installed in the electric vehicle. In this specification, the multiple dates are referred to as a first reference date and a second reference date. The first reference date is, for example, the date immediately after the electric vehicle is shipped, but it may also be the date on which the user U plans to start using the electric vehicle. The second reference date is, for example, the date a predetermined number of years have passed since the first reference date. The first reference date, the second reference date, or the length of the period between the first and second reference dates may be set by the user U via the information terminal 2. The user U may also set usage conditions, including the type (model) or use of the electric vehicle, in addition to the first reference date, the second reference date, or the length of the period between the first and second reference dates.

[0024] In this specification, the maximum possible driving distance on a first reference date may be referred to as the first maximum driving distance, and the maximum possible driving distance on a second reference date may be referred to as the second maximum driving distance. Also, an image corresponding to the first maximum driving distance may be referred to as the first distance image, and an image corresponding to the second maximum driving distance may be referred to as the second distance image.

[0025] 2 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which information terminal 2 displays the first distance image and the second distance image. An image for selecting the vehicle model for which the first distance image and the second distance image are to be displayed is displayed in area R1 in the upper left of FIG. 2. Area R2 displays characters for user U to select the purpose for which the electric vehicle will be used. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the name of the department that will use the electric vehicle is displayed as the purpose, but the purpose is not limited to the department name. Characters that directly indicate the nature of the work, such as "long-distance transportation" or "delivery of luggage," may also be displayed.

[0026] Area R3 shows the maximum mileage by month. Image G1 shows the first maximum mileage, and image G2 shows the second maximum mileage. Image G1 is an example of a first distance image, and image G2 is an example of a second distance image. Image G3 shows the mileage required for user U's intended use. The mileage required for user U's intended use is calculated by adding a predetermined value as a buffer during use to the distance required for the intended use. Because the characteristics of batteries and electric vehicles change with temperature, the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage have different values ​​depending on the month. By looking at the image displayed in area R3, user U can confirm whether the maximum mileage is greater than the mileage required for user U's intended use, even in the month with the shortest maximum mileage.

[0027] Area R4 shows, superimposed on a map, a first distance image and a second distance image starting from a reference position (Yokohama in FIG. 2) that is the starting point when user U uses the electric vehicle. Image G4 (dash-dotted line) shown in area R4 is the first distance image, and image G5 (dashed line) is the second distance image. It can be seen that the distance from Yokohama to the position indicated by the first distance image is greater than the distance from Yokohama to the position indicated by the second distance image. FIG. 2 displays the first distance image and the second distance image corresponding to the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage calculated taking into account the distance along the road, the gradient of the road, the degree of road congestion, and the like. The first distance image and the second distance image may show approximate positions corresponding to the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage from the starting point using concentric circles centered on the starting point.

[0028] The first and second distance images may be displayed by filling in a predetermined pattern an area corresponding to the maximum estimated travel distance during the period from the first reference date to the second reference date. In this case, the area between images G4 and G5 shown in area R4 in Fig. 2 is filled in, and the outer edge of that area farthest from the reference position corresponds to the first distance image, and the outer edge of that area closest to the reference position corresponds to the second distance image.

[0029] In area R4, place names are also displayed superimposed on the first and second distance images. By looking at the first and second distance images and the superimposed place names, user U can determine whether the electric vehicle whose distance image is displayed in FIG. 2 can be used in the user U's business.

[0030] [Configuration of information processing device 1 in the first embodiment] 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the information processing device 1. The information processing device 1 has a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. The control unit 13 has a reference data acquisition unit 131, an input data acquisition unit 132, a mileage identification unit 133, and a display processing unit 134.

[0031] The communication unit 11 includes a communication interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from the information terminal 2 via a network. The communication unit 11 inputs data received from the information terminal 2 to the reference data acquisition unit 131, the input data acquisition unit 132, or the mileage determination unit 133. The communication unit 11 also transmits data input from the display processing unit 134 to the information terminal 2.

[0032] The storage unit 12 includes storage media such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and a solid-state drive (SSD). The storage unit 12 stores programs executed by the control unit 13. The storage unit 12 also stores various data used by the control unit 13 to display the first distance image and the second distance image on the information terminal 2. The storage unit 12 stores performance data indicating the relationship between, for example, at least one of the time elapsed since a first reference date or the cumulative distance traveled by the electric vehicle since the first reference date and the distance the electric vehicle can travel when fully charged.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of performance data. The horizontal axis of the graph shown in FIG. 4 represents the elapsed time from the time when the electric vehicle began to be used. The vertical axis represents the maximum mileage when the battery is fully charged. As shown in FIG. 4, the maximum mileage decreases over time. T1 in FIG. 4 corresponds to the first reference date, and T2 corresponds to the second reference date. It can be seen that the second maximum mileage on the second reference date is shorter than the first maximum mileage on the first reference date.

[0034] Figures 4(a) and 4(b) show different battery performance (e.g., battery capacity) at different first reference dates T1. Battery capacity is the maximum charge amount that changes with battery performance degradation. Figure 4(a) shows that the maximum possible driving distance at the first reference date T1 is L1, and the maximum possible driving distance at the second reference date T2 is L2.

[0035] Figure 4(b) shows performance data when the first reference date is T1' in Figure 4(a). Figure 4(b) shows that the maximum drivable distance on the first reference date T1 is L1', and the maximum drivable distance at the time when elapsed time is T2 is L2'. T1 in Figure 4(b) corresponds to the time T1' in Figure 4(a), and L1' is smaller than L1, and L2' is smaller than L2.

[0036] The performance data is data calculated based on, for example, the number of days since manufacture (degree of storage deterioration), whether the vehicle is new or used (degree of storage deterioration and degree of charge / discharge cycle deterioration), cumulative mileage (degree of storage deterioration and degree of charge / discharge cycle deterioration), other factors (degree of storage deterioration, degree of charge / discharge cycle deterioration, charge / discharge pattern), etc. Note that the charge / discharge pattern differs depending on, for example, the driving method and the topography of the place where the vehicle is driven.

[0037] The performance data varies depending on the type of battery installed in the electric vehicle, the environment in which the electric vehicle is used, or the intended use of the electric vehicle. Therefore, the storage unit 12 may store multiple pieces of performance data associated with the performance of the battery installed in the electric vehicle. Furthermore, the storage unit 12 may store multiple pieces of performance data associated with temperature, or may store multiple pieces of performance data associated with the intended use. Furthermore, the storage unit 12 may store multiple pieces of performance data associated with the elapsed time or the accumulated mileage since the electric vehicle was manufactured. Furthermore, the performance data may be the change in charge capacity due to performance degradation calculated from the elapsed time, or the change in charge capacity due to performance degradation calculated based on the elapsed time and the accumulated mileage (number of cycles). Furthermore, the performance data may be calculated more precisely based on driving data (historical information such as usage and driving conditions) acquired while the vehicle is traveling.

[0038] The configuration and operation of each part of the control unit 13 will be described below with reference to FIG. The reference data acquisition unit 131 acquires processing reference data that indicates the performance of the battery installed in the electric vehicle. The reference data acquisition unit 131 acquires processing reference data that indicates the performance of the battery on at least a first reference date. The reference data acquisition unit 131 may acquire the processing reference data in association with the model of the electric vehicle or the type of battery.

[0039] The processing reference data may include any data that has a correlation with battery performance, and may include, for example, at least any of actual measurement data acquired from the electric vehicle, data indicating the manufacturing date of the electric vehicle, data indicating the mileage of the electric vehicle, and data indicating whether the electric vehicle is a new vehicle or a used vehicle. The reference data acquisition unit 131 may acquire processing reference data that is stored in advance in the storage unit 12, or may acquire processing reference data from an external device that stores data related to the electric vehicle. The reference data acquisition unit 131 notifies the mileage determination unit 133 of the acquired processing reference data.

[0040] The input data acquisition unit 132 acquires various data input at the information terminal 2. For example, the input data acquisition unit 132 acquires vehicle model data indicating a vehicle model selected by the user U from a plurality of vehicle models at the information terminal 2. The input data acquisition unit 132 may also acquire, from the information terminal 2, usage data indicating the usage of the electric vehicle by the user U. The input data acquisition unit 132 notifies the mileage determination unit 133 of the acquired data.

[0041] The input data acquisition unit 132 may function as a position data acquisition unit that acquires position data indicating a reference position from which the electric vehicle starts traveling, which is input to the information terminal 2. The position data may be an address or postal code indicating the reference position, a place name indicating a representative point of the reference position, or data indicating the latitude and longitude of the reference position.

[0042] The input data acquisition unit 132 may function as a period data acquisition unit that acquires period data indicating the period from a first reference date to a second reference date. The period data is, for example, the period from the first reference date when the user U starts using the electric vehicle to the second reference date when the user U plans to end using the electric vehicle. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the period is set to six years.

[0043] The mileage determination unit 133 determines the maximum mileage of the electric vehicle that can be used by the user U based on various types of data. For example, the mileage determination unit 133 determines a first maximum mileage of the electric vehicle when fully charged on a first reference date by referring to performance data stored in the storage unit 12. Specifically, the mileage determination unit 133 refers to performance data corresponding to the performance corresponding to the battery state indicated by the reference processing data acquired by the reference data acquisition unit 131, and determines the maximum mileage corresponding to the first reference date indicated by the performance data as the first maximum mileage.

[0044] As an example, when the reference processing data indicates that one year has passed since the electric vehicle was manufactured, the mileage identification unit 133 refers to performance data corresponding to the time elapsed since the electric vehicle was manufactured being one year (for example, performance data as shown in FIG. 4(b)). When the reference processing data indicates that the cumulative mileage of the electric vehicle is 10,000 km, the mileage identification unit 133 may refer to performance data corresponding to the cumulative mileage of 10,000 km.

[0045] Furthermore, the mileage determination unit 133 determines a second maximum mileage of the electric vehicle when fully charged on the second reference date, based on the time elapsed from the first reference date to the second reference date or the cumulative mileage from the first reference date to the second reference date. The mileage determination unit 133 determines the second maximum mileage, for example, based on the period indicated by the period data. Specifically, the mileage determination unit 133 determines, in the performance data used to determine the first maximum mileage, the maximum mileage corresponding to the second reference date after the period indicated by the feedback data has elapsed from the first reference date, as the second maximum mileage.

[0046] 4(a), the mileage determination unit 133 determines that the first maximum mileage is L1 because the maximum possible mileage on the first reference date T1 is L1. The mileage determination unit 133 then determines that the second maximum mileage is L2 because the period ΔT indicated by the period data has elapsed since the first reference date T1.

[0047] The mileage determination unit 133 may determine the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage by referring to performance data associated with the battery performance indicated by the processing reference data acquired by the reference data acquisition unit 131. As an example, when the performance data corresponding to the battery performance indicated by the processing reference data acquired by the reference data acquisition unit 131 is the data shown in Fig. 4(a), the mileage determination unit 133 determines that the first maximum mileage on the first reference date is L1, and determines that the second maximum mileage on the second reference date after the period ΔT has elapsed from the first reference date is L2.

[0048] 4(b), the mileage determination unit 133 determines that the first maximum mileage on the first reference date is L1' and that the second maximum mileage on the second reference date is L2'. By operating the mileage determination unit 133 in this manner, the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage are determined taking into account the performance of the battery on the first reference date, thereby improving the accuracy with which the mileage determination unit 133 determines the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage.

[0049] Incidentally, battery performance varies depending on the environment in which an electric vehicle is used. Therefore, the mileage determination unit 133 may determine the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage from the reference location indicated by the location data by referring to performance data associated with a temperature corresponding to a reference air temperature at the reference location. The mileage determination unit 133 may determine the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage by calculating the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage by inputting values ​​indicated by the performance data into a predetermined arithmetic formula. By operating the mileage determination unit 133 in this manner, when an electric vehicle for which the information processing device 1 determines the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage is used in multiple regions with different climates, the difference between the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage determined by the mileage determination unit 133 and the actual mileage of the electric vehicle can be reduced regardless of the region.

[0050] Furthermore, the mileage determination unit 133 may determine the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage for each of a plurality of time periods by referring to performance data corresponding to the average temperature for each time period in the area where the electric vehicle is used. The mileage determination unit 133 determines the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage for each month, for example, as shown in area R3 in Fig. 2. The mileage determination unit 133 notifies the display processing unit 134 of the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage in association with the plurality of time periods.

[0051] The display processing unit 134 causes a display device (e.g., information terminal 2) to display a first distance image corresponding to the first maximum traveled distance identified by the traveled distance identification unit 133 and a second distance image corresponding to the second maximum traveled distance in a distinguishable manner. For example, the display processing unit 134 causes the display device to display the first distance image and the second distance image in association with each of a plurality of time periods. In this case, the first distance image is, for example, image G1 shown in region R3 in FIG. 2, and the second distance image is, for example, image G2 shown in region R3 in FIG. 2. The display processing unit 134 may cause the information terminal 2 to display only one of the first distance image and the second distance image selected by the user U.

[0052] 2, the display processing unit 134 may cause the information terminal 2 to display, superimposed on a map image, a first line image G4 indicating the position at the first maximum traveling distance from a reference position (for example, "Yokohama") indicated by the position data acquired by the input data acquisition unit 132, a second line image G5 indicating the position at the second maximum traveling distance from the reference position, and an image indicating the reference position. By causing the display processing unit 134 to display such images on the information terminal 2, the user U can more easily determine whether he or she can continue to use the electric vehicle for a desired purpose starting from the reference position after a predetermined number of years have passed since he or she started using the electric vehicle.

[0053] The display processing unit 134 may superimpose an image indicating the place name of the reference position on the map image in a first manner, and may superimpose at least one of an image indicating the place name of the position corresponding to the first maximum traveling distance or an image indicating the place name of the position corresponding to the second maximum traveling distance on the map image in a second manner different from the first manner.

[0054] In the example shown in region R4 of FIG. 2, the place name of Yokohama, which is the reference position, is surrounded by a thick frame, Atami, Sagamihara, Okegawa, Moriya, and Chonan, which are positions corresponding to the first maximum mileage, are surrounded by dashed frames, and Odawara, Hachioji, Kawagoe, Kashiwa, and Ichihara, which are positions corresponding to the second maximum mileage, are surrounded by thin solid frames. The display processing unit 134 may display an image showing a place name that has been set in advance by the user U from among multiple place names of positions corresponding to the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage from the reference position. By displaying the place names of positions corresponding to the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage in such a way that the display processing unit 134 can distinguish between the place names of the positions corresponding to the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage, the user U can easily grasp the range in which the electric vehicle can travel.

[0055] The display processing unit 134 may set the color of the first distance image and the color of the place name corresponding to the first maximum mileage to a similar first color, and the color of the second distance image and the color of the place name corresponding to the second maximum mileage to a similar second color. By having the display processing unit 134 display the distance image and the place name in this manner on the information terminal 2, the user U can easily grasp which point corresponds to the first maximum mileage and which point corresponds to the second maximum mileage.

[0056] The display processing unit 134 may cause the information terminal 2 to display the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage starting from the reference position, which the mileage determination unit 133 has determined by referring to performance data associated with a temperature corresponding to the reference air temperature at the reference position. The reference temperature is, for example, the annual average temperature, the annual maximum temperature, or the annual minimum temperature at the reference position. By causing the display processing unit 134 to display the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage determined based on the temperature at the reference position in this way, users U in various regions can grasp the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage with high accuracy.

[0057] Furthermore, when the mileage determination unit 133 determines the second maximum mileage corresponding to the period input by the user U, the display processing unit 134 may change the second distance image displayed on the information terminal 2 each time the input data acquisition unit 132 acquires new period data. By operating the display processing unit 134 in this manner, the user U can check the second distance image while switching the period for which the electric vehicle is planned to be used, making it easier to determine the period for which the electric vehicle is planned to be used and to check the condition of the electric vehicle if it is used for a period longer than the period for which the electric vehicle is planned to be used.

[0058] [Maximum driving distance for each use] Incidentally, the maximum driving distance of an automobile varies depending on its use. For example, the maximum driving distance when the automobile is used for driving on a main road where starting and stopping are infrequent is greater than the maximum driving distance when the automobile is used for driving on a main road where starting and stopping are frequent. Therefore, the information processing device 1 may receive an input of the use of the electric automobile from the user U and cause the information terminal 2 to display a first maximum driving distance and a second maximum driving distance that differ for each input use.

[0059] The information processing device 1 uses an effectiveness coefficient associated with the application to identify the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage for each application. The storage unit 12 stores an effectiveness coefficient associated with each of a plurality of applications of the electric vehicle, the effectiveness coefficient indicating a coefficient for converting the mileage in a reference application into the actual mileage in each of the plurality of applications. The effectiveness coefficient is a value indicating the ratio of the energy efficiency in each application to the energy efficiency in the reference application. The reference application is, for example, an application in which the frequency of starting and stopping is low and the energy efficiency is relatively high.

[0060] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an effectiveness coefficient for each use. The effectiveness coefficient may be calculated based on the fuel efficiency (actual fuel efficiency) of a gasoline-powered vehicle or the driving distance of a fully charged electric vehicle. However, the table shown in FIG. 5 shows the relationship between use, fuel efficiency, and effectiveness coefficient. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the general affairs department has the highest effectiveness coefficient, and the delivery department, which has a high frequency of starting and stopping, has the lowest effectiveness coefficient. The driving distance of an electric vehicle may be calculated by calculating the actual fuel efficiency of a gasoline-powered vehicle and then multiplying, dividing, adding, or subtracting the calculated actual fuel efficiency by a predetermined coefficient for converting the actual fuel efficiency of a gasoline-powered vehicle to the driving distance of an electric vehicle.

[0061] The display processing unit 134 causes the information terminal 2 to display a screen for selecting one use from a plurality of uses, and the input data acquisition unit 132 accepts input or selection of the use by the user U. The mileage determination unit 133 calculates the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage for the selected use by converting the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage for the reference use by an effective coefficient corresponding to the selected use.

[0062] For example, if "sales" with an effective coefficient of 0.90 is selected as the use, the first maximum mileage for the reference use is 150 km, and the second maximum mileage is 130 km, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the first maximum mileage for the use of "sales" as 150 × 0.90 = 135 km, and the second maximum mileage as 130 × 0.90 = 117 km. The display processing unit 134 causes the information terminal 2 to display the first distance image and the second distance image corresponding to the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage calculated in this manner.

[0063] The display processing unit 134 may cause the information terminal 2 to display the first distance image and the second distance image together with information indicating the mileage required for the purpose selected by the user U (for example, image G3 in FIG. 2 ). The mileage required for the purpose selected by the user U may be a distance input by the user U, or may be a distance identified by the display processing unit 134 by referencing a table that associates purposes with required mileage stored in the storage unit 12. By configuring the information processing device 1 in this way, the information terminal 2 displays the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage, which differ depending on the purpose for which the user U will use the electric vehicle, making it easier for the user U to appropriately determine whether they will be able to continue using the electric vehicle for their own purpose even several years from now.

[0064] Note that the maximum mileage varies depending on the vehicle model. Therefore, the storage unit 12 may store multiple pieces of performance data associated with the vehicle model of the electric vehicle, and the display processing unit 134 may display on the information terminal 2 a screen for selecting one vehicle model from the multiple vehicle models, and may display on the information terminal 2 a first distance image and a second distance image corresponding to the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage corresponding to the vehicle model selected on the screen. In this case, the mileage determination unit 133 may determine the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage by referring to the performance data corresponding to the selected vehicle model.

[0065] The display processing unit 134 may cause the information terminal 2 to display a first distance image and a second distance image corresponding to the combination of use and vehicle type selected by the user U. In this case, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage for the reference use by, for example, referring to performance data corresponding to the vehicle type, and converts the calculated first maximum mileage and second maximum mileage by the effective coefficient of the selected use to calculate the first distance image and the second distance image corresponding to the combination of the selected use and vehicle type.

[0066] 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which the first distance image and the second distance image are displayed after the vehicle type and purpose have been selected by the user U. Area R3 displays that the first maximum mileage on the first reference date (present) when using an electric vehicle for business purposes is 135 km, and the second maximum mileage six years from now is 117 km. With the information processing device 1 configured in this way, the user U can appropriately select a vehicle type that can be used for his or her own purpose.

[0067] [Processing Flow of Information Processing Device 1 in First Embodiment] Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing in the information processing device 1. The flowchart shown in Fig. 7 starts when application software for displaying the first distance image and the second distance image on the information terminal 2 is launched.

[0068] The display processing unit 134 causes the information terminal 2 to display a screen for accepting the selection of a vehicle model, and the mileage determination unit 133 obtains the vehicle model via the input data acquisition unit 132 (S1). The mileage determination unit 133 determines whether performance data corresponding to the selected vehicle model is stored in the storage unit 12 (S2). If the mileage determination unit 133 determines that the performance data is not stored in the storage unit 12 (NO in S2), the mileage determination unit 133 causes the information terminal 2 to display error information indicating that the maximum mileage cannot be displayed via the display processing unit 134 (S3).

[0069] When it is determined that performance data is stored in the storage unit 12 (YES in S2), the mileage determination unit 133 obtains the intended use via the input data acquisition unit 132 (S4). The mileage determination unit 133 determines an effective coefficient corresponding to the intended use (S5). Subsequently, the mileage determination unit 133 obtains the period between the first reference date and the second reference date via the input data acquisition unit 132 (S6). The mileage determination unit 133 determines a first maximum mileage and a second maximum mileage corresponding to the obtained period based on the performance data. The mileage determination unit 133 converts the determined first maximum mileage and second maximum mileage based on the effective coefficient, thereby determining the first maximum mileage and second maximum mileage corresponding to the vehicle type and intended use selected by the user U (S7).

[0070] Next, the display processing unit 134 acquires the reference position via the input data acquisition unit 132 (S8), and causes the information terminal 2 to display a first distance image showing a position corresponding to the first maximum mileage from the reference position and a second distance image corresponding to the second maximum mileage (S9). The information processing device 1 determines whether an end operation has been performed on the information terminal 2 (S10), and repeats the processes from S1 to S9 until an end operation is performed. Note that the information processing device 1 may acquire the vehicle type, purpose, period, and reference position in any order, and may acquire these simultaneously.

[0071] [Effects of the information processing device 1 according to the first embodiment] As described above, the mileage determination unit 133 determines the first maximum mileage when the electric vehicle is fully charged on a first reference date and the second maximum mileage when the electric vehicle is fully charged on a second reference date by referring to the performance data stored in the storage unit 12. Then, the display processing unit 134 causes the information terminal 2 to distinguishably display the first distance image corresponding to the first maximum mileage and the second distance image corresponding to the second maximum mileage. With the information processing device 1 configured in this way, the user U can easily grasp the maximum mileage at the time of starting to use the electric vehicle and the maximum mileage several years from now, and can therefore easily determine whether to select this electric vehicle.

[0072] Second Embodiment In the above explanation, it is assumed that the vehicle model to be used by the user U is predetermined or the user U selects the vehicle model, but because there are many vehicle models of electric vehicles, it may be too much work for the user U to select one vehicle model at a time from the many vehicle models and check the first maximum mileage and second maximum mileage. Therefore, the information processing device 1 may acquire the usage conditions of the electric vehicle from the user U, select an electric vehicle that meets the acquired usage conditions, and present the selected electric vehicle to the user U.

[0073] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device 1a according to the second embodiment. The information processing device 1a shown in Fig. 8 differs from the information processing device 1 shown in Fig. 3 in that it further includes a selection unit 135. In addition, the input data acquisition unit 132 in the information processing device 1a also functions as a usage condition acquisition unit.

[0074] The input data acquisition unit 132 acquires the conditions for use of the electric vehicle, including the required driving distance, from a user U who wishes to use the electric vehicle. The input data acquisition unit 132 notifies the selection unit 135 of the acquired conditions for use.

[0075] The mileage specification unit 133 specifies at least one of the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage of the multiple electric vehicles that can be used by the user U. The selection unit 135 selects one or more electric vehicles that can be used by the user U from the multiple electric vehicles by comparing the required mileage indicated by the usage conditions with at least one of the first maximum mileage and the second maximum mileage corresponding to each of the multiple electric vehicles.

[0076] When the user U does not input the period during which the electric vehicle will be used, the selection unit 135 compares the required mileage with the first maximum mileage and selects an electric vehicle whose first maximum mileage is greater than the required mileage. When the user U inputs the period during which the electric vehicle will be used, the selection unit 135 compares the required mileage with the second maximum mileage on a second reference date corresponding to the input period and selects an electric vehicle whose second maximum mileage is greater than the required mileage. Note that when the user U does not input the period during which the electric vehicle will be used, the selection unit 135 may select an electric vehicle whose second maximum mileage after a predetermined period (for example, five years) has elapsed is greater than the required mileage.

[0077] The display processing unit 134 causes the information terminal 2 to display information for identifying the electric vehicle selected by the selection unit 135 (for example, the vehicle number or the model name) as an electric vehicle recommended to the user U. The display processing unit 134 may cause the information terminal 2 to display the first distance image and the second distance image together with the information for identifying the electric vehicle.

[0078] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for user U to input usage conditions. Area R5 in FIG. 9 is an area for user U to input the required mileage. Area R6 is an area for user U to input the purpose of the electric vehicle. Area R7 is an area for user U to input the base of user U (i.e., the reference position). When user U presses the "Search" button after inputting the required mileage, purpose, and reference position, selection unit 135 executes the above-mentioned selection process, and display processing unit 134 displays the selection result.

[0079] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displaying the selection results. The screen shown in Fig. 10 includes the same content as the screen shown in Fig. 2, but area R1 shows information for identifying the electric vehicle selected by selection unit 135. Furthermore, if selection unit 135 selects multiple electric vehicles, display processing unit 134 displays an "Other vehicle model" button in area R1, and when user U presses the "Other vehicle model" button, first distance images and second distance images corresponding to the other electric vehicles selected by selection unit 135 are displayed.

[0080] Furthermore, a "search again" button is displayed in area R1, and when user U presses the "search again" button, display processing unit 134 redisplays the screen shown in Fig. 9. User U can input different conditions on the redisplayed screen and perform another search.

[0081] As described above, the information processing device 1a according to the second embodiment compares the required mileage indicated by the usage conditions with at least one of the first maximum mileage or the second maximum mileage corresponding to each of the plurality of electric vehicles, and selects one or more electric vehicles that the user U can use from among the plurality of electric vehicles. With the information processing device 1a configured in this way, the user U can easily use the most suitable electric vehicle without having to compare the first maximum mileage or the second maximum mileage of a large number of electric vehicles with the required mileage.

[0082] <Third embodiment> [Deriving the conditions for using electric vehicles] In the above explanation, the user U inputs the usage conditions of the electric vehicle, but there may be a discrepancy between the usage conditions of the electric vehicle assumed by the user U and the usage conditions of the electric vehicle derived from the vehicle usage history managed by the user U. If the degree of discrepancy becomes large, there is a high risk that an electric vehicle that does not actually meet the usage conditions of the user U will be selected. Therefore, the information processing device 1b according to the third embodiment may derive the mileage required for the user U and the mileage that the electric vehicle would have traveled if it had traveled based on the history, based on the vehicle usage history managed by the user U, and present information based on the derived mileage to the user U.

[0083] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an overview of an information processing system S in the third embodiment. The information processing system S further has a managed vehicle V. The managed vehicle V is a vehicle managed by a user U, and is, for example, a gasoline-powered vehicle, a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or an electric vehicle. In this embodiment, the managed vehicle V is described as a gasoline-powered vehicle. The managed vehicle V is equipped with a communication module for communicating with the information processing device 1b and a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver for measuring the position of the managed vehicle V.

[0084] The information processing device 1b stores information about the vehicle. The information about the vehicle is, for example, information made public by the vehicle manufacturer or an external organization other than the manufacturer, and includes at least performance values ​​(electricity consumption information indicating the electricity consumption of the electric vehicle and information indicating the capacity of the battery installed in the electric vehicle). The performance values ​​are values ​​indicating the performance of the vehicle indicated by catalog information (information on the vehicle's performance, equipment, etc. listed in a catalog, etc.), and is, for example, information made public by the vehicle manufacturer or an external organization other than the manufacturer.

[0085] Furthermore, the information processing device 1b stores prediction parameters corresponding to the electric vehicle's intended use for each use of the electric vehicle. The prediction parameters are parameters for predicting the electricity consumption when the electric vehicle is driven for a predetermined use. The prediction parameters may also be parameters for predicting the fuel consumption when a gasoline-powered vehicle is driven for a predetermined use. The prediction parameters are, for example, numerical values ​​expressed as positive numbers equal to or less than 1.

[0086] The following describes the process in which the information processing system S presents information based on the travel distance to the user U. First, the information processing device 1b acquires travel data from the managed vehicle V ((1) in FIG. 11).

[0087] The travel data is GPS information received via a GPS receiver, and is data indicating the location history of the managed vehicle V over a predetermined period of time, such as data associating location coordinates with the measurement time at which the location coordinates were measured. The predetermined period is a predetermined period, such as one week, one month, or one year.

[0088] If the managed vehicle V does not have a communication module or a GPS receiver, the information processing device 1b may generate the driving data based on regional information obtained from information managed in association with the managed vehicle V. The regional information may include, for example, management ledger data that manages the driving history of the managed vehicle V (e.g., a history showing the daily mileage), maintenance data that records the state of the managed vehicle V when the managed vehicle V is maintained (e.g., data recording the mileage indicated by the odometer at the time of maintenance), and interview data obtained by interviewing the user of the managed vehicle V about the history of their use of the managed vehicle V (e.g., a history showing the route traveled). The information processing device 1b generates the driving data based on, for example, one piece of data or a combination of multiple pieces of data included in the regional information.

[0089] The information processing device 1b calculates the estimated electricity consumption based on the electricity consumption information of the candidate vehicle and the predicted parameters of the electric vehicle corresponding to the intended use of the managed vehicle V ((2) in FIG. 11). The candidate vehicle is a candidate electric vehicle to be presented to the user U. The estimated electricity consumption is the electricity consumption estimated when the candidate vehicle travels along the position history indicated by the travel data.

[0090] The information processing device 1b calculates a reference distance based on the travel data as a reference distance required for the candidate vehicle ((3) in FIG. 11). The reference distance is a reference distance required for the candidate vehicle.

[0091] The information processing device 1b calculates the possible driving distance at maximum charge based on the calculated estimated electricity consumption and the capacity of the battery installed in the candidate vehicle ((4) in FIG. 11). Then, the information processing device 1b causes the information terminal 2 to display presentation information based on the reference driving distance and the possible driving distance ((5) in FIG. 11).

[0092] In this way, the information processing system S can provide information indicating the performance required for the user U's intended use of the electric vehicle and information that is close to the performance that the user will experience when actually using the electric vehicle. This allows the user U to easily understand whether the presented candidate vehicles meet the performance required for the user U's intended use of the electric vehicle. As a result, the information processing system S can reduce the risk of selecting an electric vehicle that does not meet the performance required for the user U's intended use of the electric vehicle.

[0093] [Configuration of Information Processing Device 1b in Third Embodiment] 12 is a diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device 1b according to the third embodiment. The information processing device 1b differs from the information processing device 1b shown in FIG. 3 in that it further includes a traveling data acquisition unit 136. In addition, the traveling distance identification unit 133 also functions as a first calculation unit, a second calculation unit, and a third calculation unit.

[0094] The memory unit 12 stores information about the vehicle. The information about the vehicle includes, for example, performance values ​​of the electric vehicle (electric fuel consumption information and battery capacity). The memory unit 12 may store, for each predetermined measurement method, electricity consumption information measured by that measurement method. The predetermined measurement method is, for example, the WLTC (Worldwide harmonized Light Vehicle Test Cycles) mode, JC08 mode, etc. The memory unit 12 also stores information about the managed vehicle V. The information about the managed vehicle V includes, for example, information for the communication unit 11 to communicate with the managed vehicle V, the use of the managed vehicle V, etc.

[0095] The storage unit 12 also stores candidate vehicle information regarding candidate vehicles. Candidate vehicles are electric vehicles that are candidates to be presented to the user. Candidate vehicles may include new cars and used cars. The candidate vehicle information includes, for example, the vehicle model, model year, battery capacity, the condition of the candidate vehicle (for example, mileage, presence or absence of scratches, repair history, etc.), and the price of the candidate vehicle. The candidate vehicle information may be processing reference data.

[0096] The storage unit 12 also stores a parameter management database that manages prediction parameters. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the parameter management database. As shown in Fig. 13, the parameter management database stores vehicle models, applications, and prediction parameters in association with each other.

[0097] The parameter management database may store predicted parameters corresponding to various information, not limited to the example shown in Fig. 13. For example, the parameter management database may store, for each predetermined measurement method, predicted parameters corresponding to the measurement method.

[0098] 12, the traveling data acquisition unit 136 acquires traveling data indicating the position history of the managed vehicle V during a predetermined period. The traveling data acquisition unit 136 may acquire the traveling data from the managed vehicle V, or may acquire the traveling data from an external device (not shown) that stores the traveling data of the managed vehicle V.

[0099] The mileage determination unit 133 functions as a first calculation unit that calculates the expected electricity consumption expected when the candidate vehicle travels along the location history. The candidate vehicle may be a vehicle selected randomly from among multiple candidate vehicles, or may be a vehicle among the multiple candidate vehicles that meets a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition may be, for example, that the candidate vehicle is the same model as the managed vehicle V. Specifically, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the expected electricity consumption expected when the candidate vehicle travels along the location history based on the electricity consumption information of the candidate vehicle and prediction parameters of an electric vehicle that corresponds to the intended use of the managed vehicle V. The mileage determination unit 133 calculates the expected electricity consumption by performing the following processing from the first step to the second step.

[0100] First, the mileage determination unit 133 functions as an identification unit that determines the use of the managed vehicle V based on the travel data. For example, the vehicle use is determined by an expected travel ratio for each of a plurality of locations (e.g., urban areas, suburban areas, highways, etc.) that are expected to be traveled when the vehicle is used for that use.

[0101] In this case, first, the mileage identification unit 133 calculates the travel ratio of the managed vehicle V at each of the multiple locations based on the travel data. Then, the mileage identification unit 133 identifies, from the multiple vehicle uses, the vehicle use corresponding to the assumed travel ratio that is relatively close to the calculated travel ratio (for example, the assumed travel ratio closest to the travel ratio). Note that, without being limited to this, the mileage identification unit 133 may identify, from the multiple vehicle uses, the vehicle use that has a relatively large number of assumed travel ratios that match the calculated travel ratio (for example, the vehicle with the largest number of assumed travel ratios that match the travel ratio, or the vehicle with the largest number of assumed travel ratios that fall within the range from the numerical value indicated by the travel ratio to a predetermined threshold). Note that the mileage identification unit 133 may identify the use of the managed vehicle V by acquiring information indicating the use specified by the user.

[0102] Second, the mileage specification unit 133 calculates the estimated electricity consumption based on the electricity consumption information of the candidate vehicle and the predicted parameters of the electric vehicle corresponding to the specified use of the managed vehicle V. The mileage specification unit 133 calculates the estimated electricity consumption, for example, by multiplying the numerical value indicated by the electricity consumption information of the candidate vehicle by the numerical value indicated by the predicted parameters stored in the parameter management database in association with the use of the electric vehicle equal to the use of the managed vehicle V.

[0103] For example, if electricity fuel consumption information measured in the WLTC mode corresponding to the candidate vehicle is stored in memory unit 12, mileage identification unit 133 calculates the estimated electricity consumption based on the electricity fuel consumption information measured in the WLTC mode and the prediction parameters corresponding to the WLTC mode.For example, if electricity fuel consumption information measured in the WLTC mode corresponding to the candidate vehicle is not stored in memory unit 12, but electricity fuel consumption information measured in the JC08 mode is stored, mileage identification unit 133 calculates the estimated electricity consumption based on the electricity fuel consumption information measured in the JC08 mode and the prediction parameters corresponding to the JC08 mode.

[0104] Here, the estimated electricity consumption rate differs depending on the model of the electric vehicle, so the mileage specification unit 133 may also calculate the energy consumption rate based on prediction parameters corresponding to the model of the electric vehicle.

[0105] Specifically, first, the driving data acquisition unit 136 further acquires information indicating the vehicle type of the managed vehicle V. For example, the driving data acquisition unit 136 refers to catalog information corresponding to the managed vehicle V to acquire information indicating the vehicle type of the managed vehicle V. The driving data acquisition unit 136 may acquire information indicating the vehicle type of the managed vehicle V from the information terminal 2, vehicle inspection certificate data, vehicle management data managed by the user, etc.

[0106] The mileage determination unit 133 selects, from among multiple candidate vehicles, a candidate vehicle of the same or similar model as the model of the managed vehicle V. Note that the same model may be an electric vehicle of the same model, and a similar model may be one that is similar in height, width, length, or body shape. The mileage determination unit 133 then calculates the estimated electric fuel consumption based on the electricity consumption information of the selected candidate vehicle and prediction parameters stored in the parameter management database in association with the model of the selected candidate vehicle and the intended use of the electric vehicle that is equivalent to the intended use of the identified managed vehicle V. In this way, the information processing device 1b can improve the accuracy of calculating the estimated electric fuel consumption.

[0107] The estimated electricity consumption varies depending on whether or not the air conditioner is being used. Therefore, the mileage determination unit 133 may calculate the estimated electricity consumption corresponding to whether or not the air conditioner is being used. Specifically, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the estimated electricity consumption when the air conditioner is being used based on a prediction parameter corresponding to whether or not the air conditioner is being used, and calculates the estimated electricity consumption when the air conditioner is not being used based on a prediction parameter corresponding to whether or not the air conditioner is being used.

[0108] The estimated electricity efficiency may vary from month to month. For example, because air conditioning is used in the summer and heating is used in the winter, the estimated electricity efficiency may be worse than in periods when air conditioning and heating are not used (for example, spring or autumn). Therefore, the mileage determination unit 133 may calculate the energy consumption rate based on prediction parameters that differ for each month. For example, the parameter management database stores prediction parameters that are further associated with each month, and the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the estimated electricity efficiency for each month based on the prediction parameters that are further associated with the month and stored in the parameter management database.

[0109] The mileage determination unit 133 functions as a second calculation unit that calculates a reference mileage distance that serves as a reference for the mileage required of a candidate vehicle. Specifically, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates, based on the driving data, a reference mileage distance that serves as a reference for the mileage required of a candidate vehicle. For example, the memory unit 12 stores a reference mileage distance corresponding to each vehicle use, and the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the reference mileage distance by identifying, from the reference mileage distances stored in the memory unit 12, a reference mileage distance that corresponds to the use of the managed vehicle V identified based on the driving data.

[0110] The traveling distance determination unit 133 may calculate, as the traveling reference distance, a statistical value of the traveling distance per predetermined period (e.g., one day) specified by the position history of the traveling data. The statistical value is, for example, an average value, a mode value, or a median value. The traveling distance determination unit 133 may calculate, as the traveling reference distance, the maximum value of the traveling distance per predetermined period specified by the position history of the traveling data.

[0111] The mileage determination unit 133 functions as a third calculation unit that calculates the mileage possible at maximum charge. Specifically, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the mileage possible at maximum charge based on the calculated estimated electricity consumption and the battery capacity corresponding to the candidate vehicle. The mileage determination unit 133 calculates the mileage possible at maximum charge, for example, by multiplying the calculated estimated electricity consumption by the battery capacity corresponding to the candidate vehicle.

[0112] The driving distance of an electric vehicle varies depending on the degree of deterioration of the battery installed in the electric vehicle. Therefore, the driving distance determination unit 133 may calculate the driving distance of the candidate vehicle when fully charged based on the calculated estimated electricity consumption of the candidate vehicle and the degree of deterioration of the battery installed in the candidate vehicle.

[0113] The degree of deterioration of the battery installed in the electric vehicle is indicated, for example, by the battery performance indicated by the processing reference data acquired by the reference data acquisition unit 131. Specifically, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the mileage of the candidate vehicle at maximum charge based on the calculated estimated electricity consumption of the candidate vehicle and performance data associated with the battery performance indicated by the processing reference data acquired by the reference data acquisition unit 131. In this way, the information processing device 1b can calculate the mileage of the candidate vehicle according to the state of the battery.

[0114] Although the mileage specification unit 133 may calculate either the first maximum mileage or the second maximum mileage specified by referring to the performance data as the mileage possible of the candidate vehicle when fully charged, it is preferable to calculate the second maximum mileage as the mileage possible of the candidate vehicle when fully charged. By doing so, the information processing device 1b can reduce the occurrence of a situation in which the mileage possible of the candidate vehicle falls below the mileage reference distance due to battery degradation while the user U is using the candidate vehicle.

[0115] The display processing unit 134 causes the information terminal 2 to display presentation information based on the reference driving distance and the remaining driving distance calculated by the driving distance identification unit 133. The display processing unit 134 may cause the information terminal 2 to display the reference driving distance and the remaining driving distance together with information about the candidate vehicle in a manner that allows them to be compared, or may cause the information terminal 2 to display a difference value between the reference driving distance and the remaining driving distance, or may cause the information terminal 2 to display information indicating whether the candidate vehicle can drive the driving distance required by the user (reference driving distance).

[0116] The display processing unit 134 may cause the information terminal 2 to display the possible driving distance when the air conditioner is used and the possible driving distance when the air conditioner is not used. The display processing unit 134 may cause the information terminal 2 to display the possible driving distance for each month. The display processing unit 134 may also cause the information terminal 2 to display the estimated electricity consumption.

[0117] The display processing unit 134 may present to the user U, among the plurality of candidate vehicles, candidate vehicles that satisfy the user U's usage conditions. Specifically, the mileage determination unit 133 first calculates the mileage at maximum charge for each of the plurality of candidate vehicles based on the electricity cost information for each of the plurality of candidate vehicles and the battery capacity corresponding to each of the plurality of candidate vehicles. Then, the display processing unit 134 displays, as presented information, candidate vehicles among the plurality of candidate vehicles whose mileage is equal to or greater than the mileage reference distance. In this way, the information processing device 1b can present to the user U candidate vehicles that satisfy the user U's usage conditions.

[0118] The display processing unit 134 may present, to the information terminal 2, candidate vehicles among the plurality of candidate vehicles that satisfy other conditions besides the fact that the candidate vehicle's mileage is equal to or greater than the mileage reference distance. For example, first, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the estimated fuel efficiency that would be expected if the managed vehicle V were to travel the location history indicated by the travel data, based on the fuel efficiency included in the catalog information of the managed vehicle V and prediction parameters corresponding to the use of the managed vehicle V. The mileage determination unit 133 refers to the fuel efficiency / electricity cost conversion data and converts the calculated estimated fuel efficiency into a converted electric efficiency of the electric vehicle. The fuel efficiency / electricity cost conversion data is data in which the fuel efficiency and electric efficiency are associated for each fuel efficiency. Then, the mileage determination unit 133 presents, to the information terminal 2, candidate vehicles among the plurality of candidate vehicles whose estimated fuel efficiency is equal to or greater than the converted electric efficiency.

[0119] Furthermore, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the battery capacity required to travel the reference mileage based on the electric power conversion efficiency and the reference mileage, and presents, from among a plurality of candidate vehicles, candidate vehicles whose installed battery capacity is equal to or greater than the calculated battery capacity, to the information terminal 2. In this way, the information processing device 1b can reduce the occurrence of a situation in which a candidate vehicle whose available mileage is equal to or less than the reference mileage is presented.

[0120] Before calculating the electricity consumption of each candidate vehicle, the information processing device 1b may select, from among the multiple electric vehicles, a candidate vehicle whose specifications are similar to those of the managed vehicle V. The specifications of the managed vehicle V include, for example, the body type (truck, van, passenger car, etc.), body color, maximum number of occupants, load capacity, and vehicle height. Specifically, the selection unit 135 selects, as candidate vehicles, electric vehicles that meet at least some of the specifications of the managed vehicle from among the multiple electric vehicles. For example, the selection unit 135 references catalog information for the managed vehicle V and the multiple electric vehicles, and selects, as candidate vehicles, electric vehicles whose specifications match those of the managed vehicle V in a number equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. Thereafter, the mileage determination unit 133 calculates the mileage of the candidate vehicle selected by the selection unit 135. In this way, the information processing device 1b can present candidate vehicles from among candidate vehicles whose specifications are similar to those of the managed vehicle V.

[0121] The display processing unit 134 displays, as presentation information, candidate vehicle information corresponding to the candidate vehicle stored in the storage unit 12. In this way, the information processing device 1b can provide information that allows the user U to consider whether or not to switch from the managed vehicle V to the candidate vehicle.

[0122] The display processing unit 134 may present information regarding the running costs of the managed vehicle V and the candidate vehicle as presentation information to the user U. Specifically, the display processing unit 134 causes the information terminal 2 to display, as presentation information, the results of a comparison between a first running cost based on the energy consumed by the managed vehicle V and a second running cost based on the power consumed by the candidate vehicle.

[0123] The display processing unit 134, for example, displays the difference between the cost of gasoline for the managed vehicle V and the cost of charging the candidate vehicle for a predetermined period on the information terminal 2. In this way, the information processing device 1b allows the user to recognize how much the running costs will change if the managed vehicle V is switched to a candidate vehicle.

[0124] The display processing unit 134 may present information related to CO2 of the managed vehicle V and the candidate vehicle on the information terminal 2. Specifically, the display processing unit 134 displays, as presented information, the results of a comparison between the CO2 generated in response to the production of the energy consumed by the managed vehicle V and the CO2 generated in response to the production of the electricity consumed by the candidate vehicle.

[0125] For example, the memory unit 12 stores the amount of CO2 emitted when one liter of gasoline is produced and the amount of CO2 emitted when one kWh of electricity is produced. In this case, the display processing unit 134 causes the information terminal 2 to display a comparison result between a first CO2 emission amount calculated based on the amount of gasoline consumed by the managed vehicle V over a predetermined period and the amount of CO2 corresponding to the gasoline stored in the memory unit 12, and a second CO2 emission amount calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the candidate vehicle over a predetermined period and the amount of CO2 corresponding to the electricity stored in the memory unit 12. In this way, the information processing device 1b allows the user to recognize how much environmental contribution can be made by switching from the managed vehicle V to a candidate vehicle.

[0126] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that displays presented information. Information about one candidate vehicle is displayed on the screen shown in Fig. 14. If there are multiple candidate vehicles to be presented to the user, information about each of the multiple candidate vehicles may be displayed.

[0127] Area R8 in the upper left of FIG. 14 displays candidate vehicle information corresponding to the candidate vehicle. Area R9, adjacent to the right of area R8, displays the electricity consumption and mileage depending on whether the air conditioner is on or off. Area R10 in the upper right of FIG. 14 displays the running cost savings when switching from managed vehicle V to the candidate vehicle and the amount of CO2 reduction when switching from managed vehicle V to the candidate vehicle. Area R11 at the bottom of FIG. 14 displays the monthly running costs of managed vehicle V and the candidate vehicle. In this way, information processing device 1b presents information about the candidate vehicle and also presents the results of comparing managed vehicle V with the candidate vehicle, thereby allowing user U to easily understand the benefits of switching from managed vehicle V to the candidate vehicle.

[0128] [Processing Flow of Information Processing Device 1b in Third Embodiment] Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing in the information processing device 1b according to the third embodiment. The flowchart shown in Fig. 15 starts when the travel data acquisition unit 136 acquires travel data of the managed vehicle V (S21).

[0129] The mileage determination unit 133 determines the use of the managed vehicle V based on the travel data acquired by the travel data acquisition unit 136 (S22). The mileage determination unit 133 calculates the estimated electricity consumption based on the electricity consumption information of the candidate vehicle and prediction parameters corresponding to the use of the electric vehicle that is equivalent to the identified use of the managed vehicle V (S23).

[0130] The mileage determination unit 133 calculates a reference mileage that serves as a reference for the mileage required of the candidate vehicle based on the mileage data (S24). The mileage determination unit 133 calculates a possible mileage at maximum charge based on the calculated estimated electricity consumption and the battery capacity corresponding to the candidate vehicle (S25). Then, the display processing unit 134 causes the information terminal 2 to display presentation information based on the reference mileage and possible mileage calculated by the mileage determination unit 133 (S26).

[0131] [Effects of the information processing device 1b according to the third embodiment] As described above, the information processing device 1b calculates the expected electricity consumption based on the electricity consumption information of the candidate vehicle and the predicted parameters of the electric vehicle corresponding to the intended use of the managed vehicle V, and displays on the information terminal 2 the presented information based on the possible driving distance calculated based on the calculated reference driving distance and the battery capacity of the candidate vehicle and the reference driving distance calculated based on the driving data. In this way, the information processing device 1b can provide information indicating the performance required for the intended use of the electric vehicle of the user U and information that is close to the performance when the user actually uses the electric vehicle. This allows the user U to easily understand whether the presented candidate vehicles meet the performance required for the intended use of the electric vehicle of the user U. As a result, the information processing device 1b can reduce the risk of selecting an electric vehicle that does not meet the performance required for the intended use of the electric vehicle of the user U.

[0132] The present invention has been described above using embodiments, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention. For example, all or part of the device can be configured by functionally or physically distributing or integrating any unit. Furthermore, new embodiments resulting from any combination of multiple embodiments are also included in the embodiments of the present invention. The effects of the new embodiments resulting from the combination also have the effects of the original embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1. Information processing equipment 2. Information terminal 11 Communications Department 12 Storage section 13 Control Unit 131 Reference data acquisition unit 132 Input data acquisition unit 133 Odometer determination unit 134 Display processing section 135 Selection Section 136 Driving data acquisition unit

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires driving data indicating a location history of a managed vehicle managed by a user during a predetermined period; a storage unit that stores, for each electric vehicle, electric fuel consumption information and battery capacity of the electric vehicle, and stores, for each intended use of the electric vehicle, prediction parameters for predicting electric fuel consumption when the electric vehicle is driven for the intended use of the electric vehicle; an identification unit that identifies the use of the managed vehicle based on the driving data or information indicating the use designated by the user; a first calculation unit that calculates an estimated electricity consumption that is estimated when the candidate vehicle travels along the location history based on the electricity consumption information of the candidate vehicle that is a candidate electric vehicle to be presented to the user and the prediction parameters of the electric vehicle that corresponds to the use of the managed vehicle identified by the identification unit; and a second calculation unit that calculates a reference distance as a reference required travel distance for the candidate vehicle based on the travel data; a third calculation unit that calculates a drivable distance at maximum charge based on the estimated electricity consumption calculated by the first calculation unit and the battery capacity corresponding to the candidate vehicle; a display processing unit that displays, on a display device, presentation information based on the reference traveling distance and the remaining traveling distance; An information processing device having the above.

2. the storage unit further stores the prediction parameters determined for each vehicle type of the electric vehicle; The first calculation unit further calculates the estimated electricity consumption based on the prediction parameters corresponding to the vehicle type of the candidate vehicle. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. the second calculation unit calculates a drivable distance at maximum charge for each of the plurality of candidate vehicles based on the electricity cost information for each of the plurality of candidate vehicles and the battery capacity corresponding to each of the plurality of candidate vehicles; the display processing unit displays, as the presentation information, a candidate vehicle among the plurality of candidate vehicles whose travelable distance is equal to or greater than the travel reference distance.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1.

4. The third calculation unit further calculates a driving distance of the candidate vehicle at maximum charge based on a degree of deterioration of a battery mounted on the candidate vehicle. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. the storage unit further stores candidate vehicle information including a state of the candidate vehicle and a price of the candidate vehicle; the display processing unit displays the candidate vehicle information corresponding to the candidate vehicle as the presentation information. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

6. the display processing unit displays a comparison result of a running cost based on the energy consumed by the management vehicle and a running cost based on the power consumed by the candidate vehicle as pre-presentation information. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

7. The display processing unit displays the CO generated in response to the production of energy consumed by the managed vehicle. ２ and CO generated in response to producing the electricity consumed by the candidate vehicle. ２ and displaying the comparison result as the presented information. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

8. a selection unit that selects, from among a plurality of electric vehicles, the electric vehicle that satisfies at least some of the specifications of the management vehicle as the candidate vehicle; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

9. The computer executes acquiring driving data indicating a location history of a managed vehicle managed by a user during a predetermined period; Identifying the purpose of the managed vehicle based on the driving data or information indicating the purpose designated by the user; a step of calculating an estimated electric fuel consumption that is estimated when the candidate vehicle travels along the location history, based on the electric fuel consumption information of the electric vehicle stored in a storage unit for each electric vehicle and the candidate vehicle that is a candidate electric vehicle to be presented to the user, and the prediction parameters of the electric vehicle that correspond to the specified use of the managed vehicle among prediction parameters for predicting the electric fuel consumption when the electric vehicle travels for the use of the electric vehicle, which are stored in the storage unit for each use of the electric vehicle; calculating a reference distance as a reference for a required travel distance of the candidate vehicle based on the travel data; calculating a drivable distance at maximum charge based on the calculated estimated electricity consumption and a battery capacity stored in the storage unit for each electric vehicle and corresponding to the candidate vehicle; displaying, on a display device, presentation information based on the reference traveling distance and the remaining traveling distance; An information processing method comprising:

10. Computer, an acquisition unit that acquires driving data indicating a location history of a managed vehicle managed by a user during a predetermined period; an identification unit that identifies the use of the managed vehicle based on the driving data or information indicating the use designated by the user; a first calculation unit that calculates an estimated electricity consumption that is expected when the candidate vehicle travels along the location history, based on electricity consumption information of the electric vehicle stored in a storage unit for each electric vehicle and of a candidate vehicle that is a candidate electric vehicle to be presented to the user, and prediction parameters of the electric vehicle that correspond to the use of the managed vehicle identified by the identification unit, among prediction parameters for predicting electricity consumption when the electric vehicle travels for the use of the electric vehicle, which are stored in the storage unit for each use of the electric vehicle; a second calculation unit that calculates a reference distance as a reference required travel distance for the candidate vehicle based on the travel data; a third calculation unit that calculates a drivable distance at maximum charge based on the estimated electricity consumption calculated by the first calculation unit and a battery capacity that is stored for each electric vehicle in the storage unit and corresponds to the candidate vehicle; and a display processing unit that causes a display device to display presentation information based on the reference traveling distance and the remaining traveling distance; A program to function as a

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