Perspektiven und Visionen alternativer Energiequellen in der Fahrzeugtechnik

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Perspektiven und Visionen alternativer Energiequellen in der Fahrzeugtechnik

Maly, R.R. / Degen, W.

The global energy needs now and even in the foreseeable future will still be met by fossile primary energy sources. It is expected that a shortage will arise in 30 to 50 years from now, starting with mineral oil to be followed by natural gas. The shortage will cause increases in fuel prices and a stronger political and economical dependence on countries providing primary energies. Nuclear energy and renewable energies will not be available at that time in sufficient amounts to relieve this situation significantly. The world-wide efforts to develop alternative powertrains, e.g. electric drives with batteries or fuel cells, will provide locally emission-free propulsion systems, however, they will not contribute significantly to reduce fossile energy consumption. Over an extended transition time synthetic fuels made from natural gas and later from coal by well-known technologies will acquire an increasing market share. Their production economy will improve with rising fuel prices. The quality of synthetic fuels is superior to today's fuels opening new avenues for engineering internal combustion engines with still better fuel economy and minimal emissions.