"Automotive inSIGHTS 2/2010" (PDF, 3784 KB - Roland Berger

pOWERTRAINS AND FUELS
OF THE FUTURE
Thesis 8 – A renewable energy mix will promote electric
vehicles
CO 2 emissions of EVs/PHEVs depend on the generation
mix. Renewable and nuclear energy provide the most
reduction potential. In order to improve the well-to-wheel
CO 2 effect, an increase in clean electricity generation is
required. A wind-energy powered electric vehicle emits
83% less CO 2 than a gasoline vehicle. Electricity generated
from renewables is expected to increase by 3.6% p.a. and
account for around 23% of global electricity generation
resources by 2020.
Thesis 9 – Hydrogen may be an option in the future
After the hydrogen hype of the 1990s (when it was considered
the only solution for reducing emissions), today
it is merely a niche application. However, fuel cells for
automotive applications are still being developed. Using a
hydrogen fuel cell as an electric energy source also means
electric driving. Fuel cells are complement battery-powered
electric vehicles and will benefit from their development.
The zero-emission hydrogen car could contribute to sustainable
mobility in the medium to long term.
Thesis 10 – All solutions will contribute to sustainable
mobility
In the future, individual road transport must be environmentally
friendly, otherwise it has no chance of survival.
The environment and the economy are closely involved in
bringing efficient new technologies onto the market. Today,
there is no single, ideal road to sustainability. All reasonable
technological options have to be considered both
for the existing fleet and new vehicles. The innovation
race will ensure that the best technologies will ultimately
shape sustainable mobility in the future.
Dr. Thomas Schlick
Partner,
Roland Berger Strategy Consultants, Frankfurt
thomas_schlick@de.rolandberger.com
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