Zero-Emission Truck Powertrains for Regional and Long-Haul Missions

Abstract

Zero-emission trucks for regional and long-haul missions are an option for fossil-free freight. The viability of such powertrains and system solutions was studied conceptually in project ESCALATE for trucks with GVW of 40 tonnes and beyond through various battery electric and fuel cell prime mover combinations. The study covers battery and fuel cell power sources with different degrees of battery electric as well as H2 and fuel cell operation. As a design basis, two different missions with a single-charge/H2 refill were analysed. The first mission was the VECTO long-haul profile repeated up to 750 km, whereas the second was a real 520 km on-road mission in Finland. Based on the simulated energy consumption on the driving cycle, on-board energy demand was estimated, and the initial single-charge and H2 refill operational scenarios were produced with five different power source topologies and on-board storage capacities. The traction motors of the tractor were dimensioned so that a secondary mission of GVW up to 76 tonnes on a shorter route or a longer route with more frequent battery recharge and/or H2 refill can be operated. Based on the powertrain and vehicle model, various infrastructure options for charging and H2 refuelling strategies as well as various operative scenarios with indicative total cost of ownership (TCO) were analysed.

Multi-Criteria Analysis of Semi-Trucks with Conventional and Eco-Drives on the EU Market

“…This encompasses the overall expenses (acquisition, maintenance, operation, energy consumption), distance coverage, capacity and payload restrictions, influence on transportation costs and logistics, environmental consequences, and other relevant factors. Previously, scholars in this field have examined certain elements [9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16]. This publication provides a comprehensive and expansive view of this issue.…”

Hydrogen: An Integral Player in the Future of Sustainable Transportation. A survey of Fuel Cell Vehicle Technologies, Adoption Patterns, and Challenges

“…Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) come with several benefits including zero emissions, extended driving ranges, and rapid refueling times [11]. These vehicles can significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the reliance on fossil fuels in the transport sector [12]. FCVs predominantly use proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) due to their high efficiency and compatibility with automotive applications.…”