A short trip around the metaphorical block will provide more than enough news content regarding the future of Internal Combustion Engines and many potential alternatives to them. We wanted to know what each offers, where the speed bumps are, and who the interested parties are.
ICE (Internal Combustion Engine).
To best begin our dive into possible alternatives to ICE vehicles, we should establish some things about them.
ICE technology has been center stage for vehicle development for over 100 years. Each year the vehicles become more efficient, reliable, and advanced. Production of these vehicles, if left undisturbed by supply chain disruptions, is consistent and well-proven.
Some advocates of maintaining a solid ICE industry report a difference in the feel and power provided by alternatives.
However, fossil fuel is a limited resource with some uncontrollable pricing factors. While fuel economy has come far since early models, fossil fuel burning releases carbon dioxide into the air.
Alternatives in the mix.
We are all familiar with the increasing interest in EVs. Fully electric cars have grown in availability and popularity for several years, and many legacy OEMs have started releasing their plug-up and battery electric videos.
Battery technology is advancing rapidly and offers a sustainable model for personal vehicle operation. The vehicle requires significantly fewer moving parts making assembly and maintenance easier in theory.
Concerns.
Lately, the crisis in Ukraine has further strained the global supply chain and introduced challenges specifically to EV battery production materials. These developments have some OEMs thinking of alternatives to what has been considered the most popular alternative.
Hydrogen.
Recently Renault, Toyota, and Hyundai have explored hydrogen-powered vehicles for personal and commercial use. Following the developments, India announced a green hydrogen program inviting companies to partner with the nation for a push for more power produced by Green Hydrogen.
Green Hydrogen vs. Grey Hydrogen.
Green hydrogen produces a significantly lower amount of carbon than grey. Grey hydrogen is produced by steam reforming of natural gas and represents 95% of the market. While electrolysis produces green hydrogen, it represents only 0.01% of all hydrogen power used.
Other colors of hydrogen production exist and correspond to the carbon output of each method.
Green hydrogen use has not reached its full potential and still has years of development ahead of it. In the meantime, the climate concerns drawing some away from ICE are not alleviated by current grey hydrogen offerings.
Two steps forward, one step back?
Some companies see the future in a small part of the past. Hybrid technology made available to customers some time ago may be an ideal middle step. OEMs such as Hyundai, Ford, and Volvo have plug-in hybrids prepared for release in the near future.
The introduction of more EV, Hybrid, and ICE options are sure to help consumers make the best choice for themselves and keep dealers in a position to serve customers for years to come.