Diversity in transportation: Why a mix of propulsion technologies is the way forward for the future fleet

TLDR

Transportation is dominated by internal combustion engines, which have improved but still raise health and environmental concerns, while electrification presents its own challenges and untapped potential remains in ICE technologies. The paper argues that hybrid systems are the quickest way to cut vehicle CO₂ emissions and that, depending on region, the least impactful technology varies, urging policymakers to set emission targets rather than ban specific technologies. The study concludes that a diversified mix of propulsion technologies is required for future vehicle fleets.

Abstract

Transportation today is almost exclusively powered by the internal combustion engine (ICE). Although engines have become significantly cleaner and more efficient over the last few decades, human health and environmental concerns have led several governments around the world to propose bans on diesel and gasoline cars. The electrification of transportation, while often touted as the only way to mitigate vehicle emissions, comes with its own set of concerns and challenges that must be considered when developing future transportation technologies. Furthermore, there is still significant untapped potential in both ICE concepts and the fuels they use. This paper argues that hybrid systems are the fastest way to reduce CO2 emissions from vehicles and that, when judged on a life-cycle basis, the vehicle technology with the least environmental and health impact is highly region dependent. Therefore, a mixture of transportation technologies is necessary in the future fleet. It is hoped that the recommendations provided in this paper will prompt policymakers to set targets for emission reduction instead of implementing bans on specific technologies, so industry can focus on developing the best solutions for each situation.