Overview
Join the PSFG Annual lecture to discuss the future of automotive propulsion systems.
In principle the combustion engine is a highly developed, sophisticated machine that transfers chemical into mechanical energy following the natural laws of science. In the ongoing discussion it is under enormous pressure with regard to cleanliness and environmental friendliness.
Often the fact that efficiency and emissions are related to the chemical properties of the used energy carrier, is neglected. Furthermore, efficiency and emissions are often inversely proportional to each other and cannot be optimized simultaneously.
A very promising alternative to classical fuels based on fossil sources is the usage of sustainable fuels produced on basis of renewable energy. Recent developments in the field power to gas and power to liquid are predestined for a wider use in the energy sector including automotive applications.
The majority of the next generation propulsion systems will continue to have an internal combustion engine as an integral part of an electrified system to ensure the best compromise regarding performance, operating range, cleanliness and cost. Therefore, the ongoing optimisation of the internal combustion engine is essential for the future of automotive propulsion systems.