Carmakers Will Mainly Use Micro-Hybrid or "Start-Stop" Technology, Along With Lightweighting, to Meet Challenging Fuel Economy Targets, Adding $1,700 to Average Vehicle Cost, Says Lux Research
BOSTON, MA--(Marketwired - Jan 6, 2016) - Auto manufacturers will need to meet aggressive fuel efficiency targets over the next decade -- 54.5 miles per gallon (mpg) in the U.S. and Europe's 95 grams of carbon dioxide emission per kilometer. While advanced technologies like all-electric vehicles, super-light carbon fiber composites, and hydrogen fuel cells will all be available, Lux Research's analysis found that micro-hybrids will provide the most economical route to meeting 2025 targets.
In a micro-hybrid, the car can automatically stop its engine when it would otherwise be idling, using an improved or an additional battery (or another type of energy storage) to quickly restart it when it's time to move -- some even capture braking energy and do propulsion assist. Nearly half of the improvements required to meet the stiff targets will come from improvements in micro-hybrid technology, notably through improved batteries, while lighter structural materials will contribute 39% and improved fuels will add 13%.
"The automotive industry is under intense pressure to lower emissions and increase fuel efficiency. Improved energy storage options will help make micro-hybrids the most cost-effective way to respond, along with ongoing improvements to lightweight materials," said Anthony Schiavo, Lux Research Associate and the lead author of the report titled, "Building the Car of 2025: How to Cost-Effectively Get to 54.5 MPG Using the Right Mix of Advanced Technologies."
Lux Research analysts built a data-driven model and evaluated the innovations necessary to meet ambitious 2025 fuel efficiency targets, and their impact on automobile prices. Among their findings:
To learn more about this topic, register for the complimentary webinar, "0 to 100: the Rapidly Accelerating Future of Automotive Efficiency" on January 12th at 11:00 am EST.
The report, titled "Building the Car of 2025: How to Cost-Effectively Get to 54.5 MPG Using the Right Mix of Advanced Technologies," is part of the Lux Research Advanced Materials, Energy Storage, Autonomous Systems 2.0, and Alternative Fuels Intelligence services.
About Lux Research
Lux Research provides strategic advice and ongoing intelligence for emerging technologies. Leaders in business, finance and government rely on us to help them make informed strategic decisions. Through our unique research approach focused on primary research and our extensive global network, we deliver insight, connections and competitive advantage to our clients. Visit www.luxresearchinc.com for more information.
Contact Information:
Contact:
Carole Jacques
Lux Research, Inc.
617-502-5314
carole.jacques@luxresearchinc.com