Sustainable Automotive Design using Hybrid Powertrain Technologies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15662/IJEETR.2023.0503002Keywords:
sustainable automotive design, hybrid powertrain, fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, regenerative braking, electric propulsion, vehicle sustainabilityAbstract
Sustainable automotive design has become a critical focus in the transportation industry due to increasing environmental concerns, stringent emission regulations, and the finite nature of fossil fuel resources. Hybrid powertrain technologies, which integrate internal combustion engines with electric propulsion systems, present a promising solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel efficiency. This study explores the advancements, benefits, and challenges associated with hybrid powertrains in sustainable vehicle design. A comprehensive analysis of hybrid systems—mild hybrids, full hybrids, and plug-in hybrids—was conducted, evaluating their performance in terms of fuel economy, emissions reduction, and overall environmental impact. The research methodology involved simulation modeling and empirical testing on prototype hybrid vehicles to assess real-world effectiveness. Results indicate that hybrid powertrains significantly lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, particularly in urban driving conditions where frequent start-stop cycles occur. Additionally, the integration of regenerative braking and energy management strategies further enhances efficiency. However, challenges such as increased vehicle cost, battery lifecycle limitations, and complexities in design integration persist. The study concludes that hybrid powertrain technologies play a vital role in bridging the gap between traditional vehicles and fully electric vehicles, offering an immediate and practical approach to sustainable automotive design. Future work should focus on improving battery technologies, optimizing hybrid system architectures, and exploring lightweight materials to further enhance sustainability. This research contributes valuable insights for automotive engineers, policymakers, and manufacturers aiming to develop environmentally friendly vehicles that meet evolving market demands and regulatory frameworks.
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