In this paper, a novel mean-value exergy-based modeling framework for internal combustion engines is developed. Starting from a detailed description of the in-cylinder dynamics, the exergy balance is solved for each engine operating point and, for the first time, static maps describing the availability transfer and destruction phenomena as a function of speed and load are derived. The application of the proposed modeling strategy, from the construction of the static maps to their usage, is shown for a military series hybrid electric vehicle. Ultimately, these static maps, while providing insightful information about inefficiencies over the whole operating field of the engine, are the enabling step for the development of exergy-based control strategies aiming at minimizing the overall operational losses of ground vehicles.