Hybridization of heavy-duty vehicles for meeting European CO2 standards

CO2 standards are getting tighter for both light- and heavy-duty vehicles. We have previously covered the recently revised European standards for heavy-duty (HD) vehicles, which require a 45% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030, increasing to 65% by 2035 and 90% by 2040. These standards are clearly set with a view of encouraging adoption of zero tailpipe emitting vehicles. Still, in principle they are technology neutral and can be met through a combination of advanced internal combustion engine technologies as well.

Hybridization is seen as a powerful tool to reduce CO2 emissions without the need to add large batteries. This is especially popular in the light-duty (passenger car) segment which is seeing a significant increase in market share lately (in Europe and US). Hybridization has not been applied to the same extent in HD vehicles – likely due to the higher share of high-speed on-highway driving (energy recovery with hybrids is especially beneficial for transient driving), and the cost-benefit considerations.

Now, with these stringent standards being promulgated, hybridization is being evaluated for HD vehicles as well. Cummins presented their theoretical study on this topic at the recent Vienna Motor Symposium. Here’s a summary.