Sustainable transportation based on electric vehicle concepts: a brief overview

TLDR

Energy storage is critical for electric vehicles, with batteries and hydrogen fuel cells as the main options. The authors review GM concept and mass‑produced electric vehicles to illustrate storage solutions. They compare the pros, cons, and impacts of batteries versus hydrogen, and outline future cost and infrastructure targets.

Abstract

The energy storage system is of decisive importance for all types of electric vehicles, in contrast to the case of vehicles powered by a conventional fossil fuel or bio-fuel based internal combustion engine. Two major alternatives exist and need to be discussed: on the one hand, there is the possibility of electrical energy storage using batteries, whilst on the other hand there is the storage of energy in chemical form as hydrogen and the application of a fuel cell as energy converter. The advantages and limitations, and also the impact of both options are described. To do so, existing GM concept vehicles and mass production vehicles are presented. Eventually, an outlook is given that addresses cost targets and infrastructure opportunities as well as requirements.