DOE: $96MM for Projects to Reduce Vehicle Emissions
Written by Marybeth Luczak, Executive Editor
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is making available $96 million for research projects focused on lowering vehicle emissions: from creating “cleaner” non-road engines and fuel technologies for rail, marine, aviation, and construction and agricultural applications, to developing electric drive components and materials to maximize electric vehicle efficiency.
The DOE’s Vehicle Technologies Office on July 21 announced that applicants must submit a concept paper by Aug. 25, 2022; full applications are due Nov. 10, 2022.
Research project categories include:
• Creating cleaner non-road engines: DOE said it will fund research on non-road engine technologies “that are less harmful to the environment and develop electric, natural gas, and other alternatives for fueling and powering non-road engines.”
• Expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging accessibility: DOE said it is “committed to developing solutions in underserved areas and for drivers who do not have access to charging at home,” and will also invest in projects that create regional refueling infrastructure plans for zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles powered by electricity and hydrogen fuel.
• Advancing innovation in electric drive components and materials: This is “key to developing next-generation electrified vehicle platforms, including full-battery electric and fuel cell-electric vehicles with smaller, more affordable electric systems for improved performance and durability,” according to DOE, which will also fund projects that seek to develop “novel multi-functional materials for EVs and improve powertrain performance in EVs for increased functionality and reliability.”
In accordance with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, DOE said applicants for this funding must show how proposed projects will benefit traditionally disadvantaged communities that lack access to clean energy sources.
“To strengthen our transportation sector to support our growing economy, DOE is investing in clean mobility options that will eliminate harmful emissions, reduce our reliance on volatile fossil fuels, and cut energy costs,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said. “Achieving President Biden’s climate goals will require expanding accessibility to electric vehicles for all drivers and modernizing vehicles that power the agricultural and construction industries.”
