Hybrid and Vehicle Systems
Hybrid and vehicle systems research provides an overarching vehicle systems perspective to the technology research and development (R&D) activities of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) vehicle research programs, and identifies major opportunities for improving vehicle efficiencies. The effort evaluates and validates the integration of technologies, provides component and vehicle benchmarking, develops and validates heavy hybrid propulsion technologies, and develops technologies to reduce the parasitic losses from heavy vehicle systems. Analytic and empirical tools are used to model and simulate potential vehicle systems, validate component performance in a systems context, benchmark emerging technology, and validate computer models. Extensive collaboration with the technology development activities is required for success. The results of hybrid and vehicle systems activities are used to estimate the national benefits and impacts of DOE-sponsored technology development, and successfully transfer developed technology to industry. A brochure about DOE's plug-in hybrid electric vehicle research (PDF 8.3 MB) is available. Download Adobe Reader
Industrial Partnerships
The hybrid and vehicle systems team works with its industry partners in the FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership and the 21st Century Truck Partnership to identify and select the appropriate research and development objectives. Projects are conducted through a variety of mechanisms including: cooperative agreements, cooperative research and development agreements (CRADAs), university grants, subcontracts, and in-house research funded at DOE's national laboratories. Research partners include: vehicle and engine manufacturers, universities, material suppliers, nonprofit technology organizations, and the national laboratories.
Current Annual Progress Report
- Advanced Vehicle Technology Analysis and Evaluation Activities and Heavy Vehicle Systems Optimization Program (PDF 13.3 MB) Download Adobe Reader.