Engine options for the car of tomorrow

Journal Article · Tue Nov 01 04:00:00 EST 1977 · IEEE Spectrum; (United States)

OSTI ID:5406897

Withrow, Jr, J D

Predictions are given for a dozen years into the future based on the alternative powerplants the industry has today: an improved spark-ignited reciprocating engine, and the stratified-charge, diesel, gas turbine, Stirling, electric, Wankel, and steam engines. None of these engines is an obvious winner; all have strengths and weaknesses. The conventional spark-ignition engine will not be easily or readily displaced, but will evolve into a sophisticated powerplant that will continue to present a moving target to its challengers. The diesel engine should see increased usage. The turbine and the Stirling can be expected to compete for usage toward the end of the next decade. And, in the long run, the electric car will earn a niche for itself.

• OSTI ID: 5406897
• Journal Information: IEEE Spectrum; (United States), Journal Name: IEEE Spectrum; (United States) Vol. 14:11; ISSN IEESA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS
330000* -- Advanced Propulsion Systems
AUTOMOBILES
AUTOMOTIVE FUELS
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
DIESEL ENGINES
ELECTRIC-POWERED VEHICLES
ENGINES
FORECASTING
FUELS
GAS TURBINES
HEAT ENGINES
INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
PROPULSION
ROTARY ENGINES
SPARK IGNITION ENGINES
STIRLING ENGINES
STRATIFIED CHARGE ENGINES
TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
TURBINES
TURBOMACHINERY
VEHICLES
WANKEL ENGINES