# Advanced Vehicle Technology Project: Exploring the Benefits - Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/08/advanced-vehicle-technology-project-exploring-the-benefits/ - Published: 2011-08-11T16:52:45-04:00 - Author: greenlivingguy Let’s go advanced vehicle technology project!  Back in 2011, Energy Secretary Chu announced the selection of [40 projects](https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/AdvancedVehiclesTechnologiesAwardsTable_0.pdf) across 15 states to receive more than $175 million. This is to accelerate the development and also deployment of next-generation vehicle technologies. From state-of-the-art electric drive batteries to light-weight vehicles. All because these projects will help improve vehicle fuel efficiency and also more importantly, create quality jobs. The selected projects focus on eight key approaches to improving vehicle efficiency, including: ## **Advanced fuels and lubricants** Eight projects to improve fuels and lubricants, which will enable optimal performance of advanced combustion engines. ### **Light-weighting materials** Five projects to [accelerate](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/12/gms-chevy-spark-ev-and-advanced-battery-technology/) commercial availability of lighter weight vehicles, using advanced materials that dramatically reduce vehicle weight. ![The generated image vividly illustrates the future of advanced vehicle technology, aligning perfectly with the article's focus on exploring the benefits of innovative automotive solutions. In the foreground, sleek electric vehicles glide silently along the road, showcasing the aerodynamic designs that are crucial for maximizing energy efficiency. These cars represent the cutting-edge of battery electric vehicle( BEV) technology, a key area of research mentioned in the article. A high-tech hydrogen refueling station stands out in the scene, highlighting the potential of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) as an alternative to traditional combustion engines. This aligns with the article's mention of exploring various advanced propulsion systems. The background features a futuristic research facility, complete with holographic displays showing vehicle schematics and battery technology. This visual element emphasizes the ongoing research and development efforts in advanced vehicle technologies, reflecting the article's focus on projects that aim to improve vehicle efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The cityscape is dotted with clean energy sources like wind turbines and solar panels, underscoring the interconnected nature of advanced vehicle technology and sustainable energy production. This holistic approach to reducing emissions and dependence on fossil fuels is a central theme in the exploration of advanced vehicle technologies. The overall bright and optimistic atmosphere of the image conveys the potential benefits of these technologies, from improved air quality to enhanced energy security, as discussed in the article. It effectively captures the spirit of innovation and the promise of a more sustainable transportation future that advanced vehicle technology projects are striving to achieve. This image serves as a powerful visual companion to the article, bringing to life the concepts and potential outcomes of ongoing research in advanced vehicle technologies. It illustrates how these innovations could transform our urban landscapes and transportation systems, making the benefits of such projects tangible and exciting for viewers.](https:// i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG_8196-400x400.png?resize =400%2C400&ssl=1) ### **Light weight multi-material prototype**  Two projects to design, build and test a light-weight vehicle that is 50 percent lighter than a baseline light-duty vehicle. These projects are being undertaken as part of the Clean Energy Dialogue with Canada. #### **Advanced cells and design technology for electric drive batteries** Twelve projects to develop high energy or high power batteries for electric vehicles that should significantly exceed existing state-of-the-art technologies in terms of performance and/or cost. ### **Advanced power electronics and electric motor technology** Four projects to develop the next generation of power inverters and electric motors to meet demanding performance targets while achieving significant cost reductions. ### **Thermoelectric and enabling engine technology** Three projects to improve the efficiency of thermoelectric devices to convert engine waste heat to electricity. Selections of projects to develop early-stage enabling engine technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions are expected in September. ### **Fleet efficiency** Three projects to develop and demonstrate fuel efficient tire and driver feedback technologies that will improve efficiency of the passenger car and commercial fleet. ### **Advanced vehicle testing and evaluation** One project to conduct laboratory and field evaluations of advanced technology vehicles and related infrastructure, while developing new or modified test procedures. These awards were made by Department’s Vehicles Technologies Program, which works with industry leaders to develop and deploy clean energy vehicle technologies that strengthen the economy, protect the environment and reduce our dependence on foreign oil. ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/df91669667126e1290c21ee0342c386e2da19d588d4d9ca6560bd82ed59a9641? s=300&d=monsterid&r=g) greenlivingguy The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author, Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke # Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow. [See Full Bio](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/) [ ](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/)