The idea of change is being embraced by many Americans. The beauty of this slogan, with the many challenges facing Americans in all 50 states, is that there are so many factors in our lives that are in need of change, or at the very least, modification. One of the factors that affects all Americans, and everyone that lives on this planet, is becoming more proactive in addressing environmental problems.

Global automotive manufacturers find themselves in the midst of this issue. Oil refining capacity is being stretched to its limits with the growing thirst for gasoline from countries like India and China. This global demand is helping to bring more focus on the need for alternative fuels and less dependence on internal combustion engine technology.

This is not new news. In fact, automotive manufacturers have been working on new technologies to address these issues for some time. Arguably, some manufacturers may be further along in their advanced technology development curve, but every manufacturer seems eager to accelerate its efforts to develop reliable, and affordable, alternative energy technology that consumers will want to buy.

Hybrid technology — along with plug-in electric vehicles — is getting a boost from the wave of
“change” thinking that is sweeping across America. Globally-focused corporate marketing executives typically understand that once American consumers are on board, development accelerates. As North American automotive manufacturers develop new hybrid and electric models that reduce their reliance on the internal combustion engine, the technological “change” will likely sweep beyond the 50 states.

Furthest along in this new technological wave is the development of hybrid vehicles. Hybrids combine the benefits of the internal combustion engine (IC) with an electric motor. In city driving the vehicle is powered primarily by the battery-operated electric motor and engages the IC engine when more power is necessary – for instance, on the open road. Using the battery operated electric motor reduces the run time of the internal combustion engine allowing the hybrid vehicle to deliver more fuel efficiency.

Some of the advanced technologies typically used by hybrids include:

– Regenerative Braking. Instead of using the typical friction brakes to slow the vehicle, the electric motor applies resistance to the drive train causing the wheels to slow down. In return, the energy from the wheels turns the motor, which functions as a generator. The energy normally wasted during coasting and braking is converted into electricity, which is stored in a battery until needed by the electric motor.

– Electric Motor Drive/Assist. The electric motor provides additional power to assist the IC engine in accelerating, passing or hill climbing. This allows a smaller, more fuel efficient engine to be used. In some vehicles, the motor alone provides power for low-speed driving conditions where internal combustion engines are least efficient.

– Automatic Stop/Start. Advanced technology allows the internal combustion engine to automatically shut off when the vehicle comes to a stop and restart again when the accelerator is pressed. This eliminates wasting energy when idling.

The development of totally electric vehicles (EV) is continuing to progress. Electric vehicles are propelled by an electric motor (or motors) powered by rechargeable battery packs. Electric motors have several advantages over internal combustion engines:

– Energy efficiency. Electric motors convert 75% of the chemical energy from the batteries to power the wheels; internal combustion engines only convert 20% of the energy stored in gasoline.

– Environmentally friendliness. EVs emit no tailpipe pollutants, although the power plant producing the electricity may emit them. Electricity from nuclear-, hydro-, solar- or wind-powered plants causes no air pollutants.

– Reduced energy dependence. Electricity is a domestic energy source.

– Performance benefits. Electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation plus they require less maintenance than internal combustion engines.

EVs face significant battery-related challenges. Most EVs can only go 150 miles (or less) before recharging; gasoline vehicles can go more than 300 miles before refueling. Fully recharging the battery pack can take four to eight hours. The large battery packs are expensive and may need to be replaced prior to the end of the vehicle’s life. In addition, they are heavy and take up considerable space in the vehicle. Researchers are working on improved battery technologies to increase driving range and decrease recharging time, replacement frequency, weight and cost. These factors will ultimately contribute to the future of EVs.

Alternative fuels are derived from resources other than petroleum. Some are produced domestically, reducing our dependence on imported oil, and some are derived from renewable sources. Often, they produce less pollution than gasoline or diesel. To promote alternative fuels, the U.S. federal government offers tax incentives to consumers purchasing qualifying alternative fuel vehicles. Of the alternative fuels gaining traction and media attention, the two most popular are ethanol and natural gas.

Ethanol is an alcohol-based fuel made by fermenting and distilling starch crops, such as corn. It can also be made from “cellulosic biomass” such as trees and grasses. The use of ethanol can help reduce our dependence upon foreign oil and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. E85 is available at a growing number of gas stations right alongside of your traditional petroleum options.

Natural gas is a fossil fuel comprised mostly of methane and is one of the cleanest burning alternative fuels. It can be used in the form of compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG) to fuel cars and trucks. Dedicated natural gas vehicles are designed to run on natural gas only, while dual-fuel or bi-fuel vehicles can also run on gasoline or diesel. Dual-fuel vehicles allow users to take advantage of the widespread availability of gasoline or diesel but use a cleaner, more economical alternative when natural gas is available. Since natural gas is stored in high-pressure fuel tanks, dual-fuel vehicles require two separate fueling systems, which take up passenger/cargo space.

Indeed, change is coming in the U.S. A. New thinking and new attitudes are also creating renewed confidence that automotive engineers will deliver the dream of driving green.