Hybrid, Electric & Alternatively Fuelled Vehicles
It is most probable that the main alternative to fossil fuel vehicles in the near future is an array of different technologies suitable to different needs in different parts of the world.
Alternative vehicles and fuels have seen a growth rate in the latest ten years not only with the introduction of Hybrid Vehicles but also with government incentives to encourage the use of alternative fuels like LPG, Bio Methanol, Bio Diesel, etc.
In recent years Hydrogen and Fuel Cells have also seen a rise in interest from the automotive industry, governments and venture capital investors. All these organisations are currently involved in research, testing and validating hydrogen storage and its’ use in vehicles through partnership programmes in several European and American cities and also by showing rolling demonstrators.
The latest developments in electric powertrains and battery technology have made it possible to extend the range and life cycle of electric vehicles. Many companies around the world have started to develop electric and/or hybrid electric vehicles to be released in the next few years.
Research priorities have been identified as:
- Design, data and performance verification from small fleet programmes.
- Evaluation procedures for components performance and input data from models.
- Powertrain system control strategies and implementation
- Internal combustion engines and fuels designed for use in hybrid Vehicles
- Components for electric powertrains (high efficiency, low weight and low cost electric motors)
- Electric energy storage systems
- On-board hydrogen storage systems
- Fuel cell ancillary systems
- Vehicle/infrastructure systems