It might not save ICE, but it’s still quite impressive.
Over the last century or so, internal combustion engines have dominated our roads. However, things could be changing soon. EVs As they slowly lose prominence, it might seem like gas-powered engines are becoming obsolete. However, despite this perception, several companies continue to push the boundaries of internal combustion engine (ICE) technology.
Consider Porsche as an illustration. This prominent German automaker has been experimenting with a six-stroke engine To enhance productivity, Toyota is fully committed to the sustainability journey as well. They are actively engaged in this initiative. hydrogen combustion , and in my opinion, Toyota has the best chance of making internal combustion engines future-ready.
This being said, it's not only major automakers that are advancing innovations for internal combustion engines (ICE). Separate studies have revealed an ingenious method to enhance the efficiency of ICE-driven vehicles by converting discarded exhaust heat into electrical power.
Toyota and the major players from Japan collaborated to develop a hydrogen-burning engine for their Dakar racing vehicle.
A major issue with internal combustion engines is their inefficiency; approximately 75% of the energy produced escapes as waste heat via the exhaust pipe or through radiated warmth from the engine itself. However, a novel thermoelectric generator (TEG) seeks to tackle this problem. By placing this gadget on the exhaust system, it can harness wasted heat and transform it into electrical power.
Created by a group of researchers and released in the scientific journal ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces The prototype produced up to 56 watts of power during normal driving speeds and an impressively high 146 watts in fast-paced scenarios such as those seen with helicopters.
However, how exactly does it function? This device employs a semiconductor composed of bismuth telluride to generate power through thermal gradients. Many comparable systems typically require large water-cooling setups; however, this particular system utilizes a finned heat sink that dissipates warmth via natural air circulation—a feature particularly well-suited for motorcycles and powersport vehicles where consistent airflow is guaranteed due to movement.
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Even though the team tried out this technology on automobiles, it's evident that its application goes beyond just cars. This innovation also applies to powersports vehicles such as motorcycles. UTVs , and ATVs These devices feature open exhausts with ample air circulation, which means the setup could operate effectively without extra weight or complications. Additionally, they tend not to encounter as much traffic congestion compared to automobiles.
However, pushing this technology slightly ahead into the future, hybrid vehicles might also benefit. The electrical power produced could slowly recharge the battery, providing an additional stretch in distance. While it may not be revolutionary, each bit of reclaimed energy makes a difference.
In conclusion, this approach effectively boosts the efficiency of internal combustion engines; however, we must acknowledge that it won’t revive their supremacy. The automotive industry is moving towards electrification, and although advancements such as these can prolong the usability of gasoline-driven vehicles, they cannot halt the progression towards electric cars.
Nevertheless, for enthusiasts like us who adore motorcycles and off-road vehicles, any advancements that boost the efficiency of internal combustion engines (ICE) are certainly worth exploring. Should this thermoelectric generator (TEG) technology make it to market, it has the potential to enhance both the power and efficiency of our beloved rides. That would definitely be a plus from our perspective.
Source: Futurism , Inquirer Technology , ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces