Comparison of the Overall CO2 Emissions of Different Powertrain Systems Depending on the Energy Sector Emissions

Abstract:

A circular and sustainable economy for the private transport sector requires a holistic view of the emitted CO₂ emissions. Looking at the energy supplied to the vehicle in terms of a circular economy leads to defossilisation. The remaining energy sources or forms are renewable electric energy， green hydrogen and renewable fuels. A holistic view of the CO₂ emissions of these energy sources and forms and the resulting powertrain technologies must take into account all cradle-to-grave emissions for both the vehicle and the energy supply. In order to compare the different forms of energy， the three most relevant forms of powertrain technology are considered and a configuration is chosen that allows for an appropriate comparison. For this purpose， data from the FVV project “Powertrain 2040” are used^［1］ and combined with research data on the energy supply chain for passenger cars. The three comparable powertrain configurations are a battery electric vehicle， a fuel cell electric vehicle and an internal combustion engine hybrid vehicle fueled with electric fuel. First， the three selected powertrain configurations are presented in terms of their performance， weight， technology and other characteristics. A comparative analysis is carried out for different CO₂ emissions of the electricity mix. The electricity mix is used for both the production of the vehicle and the energy. The results are presented in the form of cradle-to-wheel emissions， which consider the total CO₂ emissions of the vehicle over its life cycle. Finally， the results are analyzed and discussed to determine which powertrain technology fits best into which energy sector CO₂ emissions window.

Key words:vehicles;energy supply;power system;carbon emission