Research in vehicles with thermal energy recovery systems

This feasibility report presents results in the thermal energy recovery systems (TERS) investigation, and the possibility of introducing them to production vehicles as subsystems. This prospective new technology should reduce dependence on fossil fuels. One of the TERS systems' research objectives is to create a sustainable, electrical power source, suitable for the energy to be stored and later used in the electrical vehicle driving mode (EV)1. It will also lower the impact on the environment by reducing fuel consumption through the application of automotive thermoelectric generators (ATEG) instead of classical alternators that convert mechanical energy to electrical. Instead of using part of the useful mechanical power, i.e. energy, we will be using wasted heat energy emitted in the environment. Investigation was carried out comprehensively by performing technical analysis, covering a wide variety of hybrid vehicles and systems. Finally, as an outcome, this report presents possible novel solutions to create sustainable hybrid vehicles with TERS systems.