Charting the Path to Electrification: Analyzing the Economic and Technological Potential of Advanced Vehicle Powertrains

Islam, Ehsan Sabri; Vijayagopal, Ram; Rousseau, Aymeric

doi:10.3390/wevj16020077

Charting the Path to Electrification: Analyzing the Economic and Technological Potential of Advanced Vehicle Powertrains

Journal Article · Tue Feb 04 23:00:00 EST 2025 · World Electric Vehicle Journal

DOI:https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16020077· OSTI ID:2511337

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The U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office (DOE-VTO) is driving advancements in highway transportation by targeting energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and cost reductions. This study investigates the fuel economy potential and cost implications of advanced powertrain technologies using comprehensive system simulations. Leveraging tools such as Autonomie and TechScape, developed by Argonne National Laboratory, this study evaluates multiple timeframes (2023–2050) and powertrain types, including conventional internal combustion engines, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Simulations conducted across standard regulatory driving cycles provide detailed insights into fuel economy improvements, cost trajectories, and total cost of ownership. The findings highlight key innovations in battery energy density, lightweighting, and powertrain optimization, demonstrating the growing viability of BEVs and their projected economic competitiveness with conventional vehicles by 2050. This work delivers actionable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders, underscoring the transformative potential of vehicle electrification in achieving sustainable transportation goals.

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Sponsoring Organization:: USDOE

Grant/Contract Number:: AC02-06CH11357

OSTI ID:: 2511337

Journal Information:: World Electric Vehicle Journal, Journal Name: World Electric Vehicle Journal Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 16; ISSN 2032-6653; ISSN WEVJAU

Publisher:: MDPI AGCopyright Statement

Country of Publication:: Belgium

Language:: English

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Charting the Path to Electrification: Analyzing the Economic and Technological Potential of Advanced Vehicle Powertrains

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