Alternate Fuel Vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) of various types are experiencing a commercial renaissance but of uncertain ultimate success. Many new electric‐drive models are being introduced by different automakers with significant technical improvements from earlier models, particularly with regard to further refinement of drivetrain systems and important improvements in battery and fuel cell systems. The various types of hybrid and all‐electric vehicles can offer significant greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions when compared to conventional vehicles on a full fuel‐cycle basis. In fact, most EVs used under most...

Advances in electric drive technology, including lithium ion batteries as well as the development of strong policy drivers such as California's Global Warming Solutions Act, now contribute to a more promising market environment for the widespread introduction of plug-in vehicles in California. Nevertheless, battery costs remain high. This study explores a strategy for overcoming the significant hurdle to electric transportation fuel use presented by high battery costs. It describes offsetting plug-in-vehicle battery costs with value derived from post-vehicle stationary use of hybrid...

Over the last several decades, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) have emerged as a zero tailpipe-emission alternative to the battery electric vehicle (EV). There are key questions about consumer reaction and response to operations and refueling of FCVs. This report presents the results of a “ride-and-drive” clinic series (n=182) held in 2007 with a Mercedes-Benz A-Class “F-Cell” hydrogen FCV. The clinic evaluated participant reactions to driving and riding in an FCV, as well as witnessing a vehicle-refueling event. The respondents entered the clinic with a strong interest in alternative...

Since the end of World War II, the passenger transportation system in the United States has been heavily based on the automobile for short haul travel and the airplane for long-haul travel. In this paper, we show that there is a growing potential for high speed rail in the United States caused partly by increasing congestion on the existing network and based partly on the higher speeds and higher service capabilities of new technology, high-speed rail. In defining the potential for high-speed rail over the next 40 years, we used two approaches: first, a bottom-up approach in which the...