A comprehensive review on the current trends, challenges and future prospects for sustainable mobility

Internal combustion engines power the great majority of automobiles on the road today. However, the challenges of complying with other propulsion systems and near-zero-emission standards are inevitable. Current stringent emission standards are becoming universal and globally harmonized test cycles are being recommended. As per the BS-VI norms, PM and NOx emissions are to be reduced by 80% and 70%, respectively for diesel engines. Indian OEMs are integrating the Euro-VI emission control technologies into their vehicle and also limiting the production of diesel engines, especially in the passenger sector. In this respect, it is necessary to enhance the current understanding of the improvements in combustion chambers, after-treatment devices, and potential low carbon fuels for sustainable transport mobility. This paper comprehensively outlines the prospects of future fuels, modified combustion systems, and after-treatment devices. The fuel composition of both fossil and biofuels plays a vital role in altering the exhaust soot and NOx characteristics. Thus an overview of hydrogen formulated fuels, the optimal combinations of the fuel-engine-after-treatment systems are also highlighted. In the end, a brief discussion concerning the total life cycle analysis is also presented in this paper. The review concludes by suggesting potential fuels and technologies for lowering the emission levels and provides directions for future work to address the challenges facing alternate energy resources for automotive applications, particularly in India.

Automated summary

This paper outlines the prospects of future fuels, modified combustion systems, and after-treatment devices, and highlights the importance of understanding improvements in combustion chambers, after-treatment devices, and potential low carbon fuels for sustainable transport mobility. The fuel composition of both fossil and biofuels plays a vital role in altering the exhaust soot and NOx characteristics. The paper suggests potential fuels and technologies for lowering emission levels and provides directions for future work in addressing the challenges facing alternate energy resources for automotive applications.