Articles tagged with "fuel-efficiency"
New 3,632°F-resistant alloy could slash fuel use in planes, turbine
Researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) in Germany have developed a novel chromium-molybdenum-silicon alloy with a melting temperature of about 2,000°C (3,632°F), offering unprecedented high-temperature stability and ductility at room temperature. Unlike traditional refractory metals that are brittle and oxidize rapidly at elevated temperatures, this new alloy oxidizes slowly even in critical temperature ranges, potentially enabling components to operate safely at temperatures well above the current limit of 1,100°C (2,012°F) set by nickel-based superalloys commonly used in aircraft engines and gas turbines. This breakthrough could significantly improve fuel efficiency in aviation and power generation, as increasing turbine operating temperatures by just 100°C (180°F) can reduce fuel consumption by approximately 5%. Given that long-haul flights will continue to rely on jet fuel for the foreseeable future, the alloy’s ability to withstand higher temperatures could help reduce fuel use and CO2 emissions, supporting environmental goals. While
materialshigh-temperature-alloysrefractory-metalsaircraft-enginesfuel-efficiencygas-turbineschromium-molybdenum-silicon-alloyGiant 114-foot wind sails to propel 325,000-deadweight-ton cargo ship
Anemoi Marine Technologies, a UK-based wind propulsion developer, has installed four large rotor sails on the 325,000 deadweight-ton very large ore carrier (VLOC) Grand Pioneer, operated by Taiwan’s U-Ming Marine Transport Corporation. The 114-foot-tall, 16-foot-diameter sails were installed at the COSCO Zhoushan shipyard in China and are designed to harness wind power via the Magnus effect, generating thrust that reduces the ship’s fuel consumption and emissions. This installation marks a significant step in U-Ming’s commitment to decarbonizing shipping and improving sustainability on long-haul routes, specifically between Brazil and China. The rotor sails, delivered fully assembled and installed using a plug-and-play method, are expected to reduce annual fuel use and emissions by 10 to 12 percent during deep-sea operations. The sails also feature a folding design for operational flexibility in ports and under bridges. Anemoi’s team supervised the installation and accompanied the vessel on
energywind-propulsionmarine-technologydecarbonizationfuel-efficiencysustainable-shippingrenewable-energyWorld's first stop-start truck engine to cut fuel, CO2 emissions
Volvo Trucks has introduced the world’s first stop-start engine system for heavy-duty trucks, designed to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This innovative technology builds on Volvo’s existing I-See and I-Roll systems, which use high-resolution maps and road topography data to optimize driving performance. The stop-start feature automatically turns off the engine when the truck approaches a downhill slope and restarts it smoothly without driver input, enhancing fuel efficiency during long-haul trips. The system activates at speeds above 37 mph and is integrated into the Volvo FH and FH Aero models with 13-litre diesel engines, available from September 2025. The I-See technology anticipates uphill grades by increasing speed beforehand and managing gear shifts to avoid fuel waste, while Eco-Roll disengages the driveline to let the truck coast optimally before re-engaging. It also applies engine braking gently at slope ends and uses traffic and road condition data to maximize kinetic energy use. This system is part of Volvo
energyfuel-efficiencystop-start-engineVolvo-Trucksemissions-reductionheavy-duty-trucksdecarbonizationChinese firm's hybrid EV offers 1,274-mile range with 137 kW motor
The Roewe M7 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) from Chinese automaker SAIC represents a significant advancement in long-range hybrid technology. Designed by former Rolls-Royce chief designer Josef Kaban, the M7 boasts a remarkable CLTC-rated range of 1,274 miles, including 99 miles of pure electric driving. It utilizes SAIC’s fifth-generation DMH hybrid system, combining a 1.5-liter engine with a front electric motor and a 19.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. The vehicle features a dedicated hybrid transmission and a 14.5-gallon fuel tank, optimizing both efficiency and extended travel capability. Performance-wise, the M7 delivers a balanced mix of power and fuel economy. The combustion engine produces 110 horsepower with 100 lb-ft of torque at a high thermal efficiency of 43%, while the electric motor adds 184 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. This setup enables a top speed of 115 mph and
energyhybrid-electric-vehicleplug-in-hybridlithium-iron-phosphate-batteryautomotive-technologyfuel-efficiencySAIC-Roewe-M7Building the business jet that silences the sonic boom
The article discusses Spike Aerospace’s development of the Spike S-512 “Diplomat,” a quiet supersonic business jet designed to overcome the challenges that grounded Concorde, primarily the disruptive sonic boom and regulatory bans on overland supersonic flight. By employing advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD), aerodynamic sculpting, and design principles inspired by NASA’s X-59 program, Spike aims to enable supersonic travel over land routes with significantly reduced noise. The S-512 is engineered to cruise at Mach 1.6, potentially cutting transatlantic flight times, such as New York to London or Paris, to under four hours while maintaining fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Key technical innovations focus on reshaping the aircraft’s fuselage—particularly an elongated nose cone, high-swept wings, and tail—to spread out shock waves and prevent their coalescence into loud sonic booms. The design uses multi-lobed lift distribution and area ruling to smooth cross-sectional changes, reducing wave drag
energyaerospacesupersonic-flightaerodynamicsfuel-efficiencynoise-reductioncomputational-modelingHigh-energy rocket fuel breakthrough boasts lighter, longer flights
Researchers at the University at Albany have synthesized a novel high-energy compound, manganese diboride (MnB2), which shows significant promise for improving rocket fuel efficiency. MnB2 releases over 20% more energy by weight and 150% more by volume compared to aluminum, the current standard in solid rocket fuels. This enhanced energy density means rockets could use less fuel to achieve the same performance, allowing for lighter payloads and more space for mission-critical equipment. Importantly, MnB2 only combusts upon contact with an ignition agents like kerosene, offering controlled and efficient fuel use. The synthesis of MnB2 was achieved using an arc melter to heat pressed manganese and boron powders to approximately 3,000°C, followed by rapid cooling to lock in a unique atomic structure. This structure features a central manganese atom bonded in a highly strained, crowded configuration, akin to a tightly coiled spring storing potential energy. Computational modeling further revealed a subtle deformation in the compound’s hexagonal
energyrocket-fuelmanganese-diboridehigh-energy-materialsfuel-efficiencyspace-technologychemical-synthesisHydrogen tank leaks threaten fuel supply, study suggests fixes
A recent study by researchers at Washington State University addresses the significant challenge of hydrogen fuel loss due to evaporation in liquid hydrogen storage tanks. Liquid hydrogen, favored for industrial use and clean energy applications, must be kept at extremely low temperatures, but even brief exposure to air causes rapid evaporation, leading to substantial fuel losses. The team developed an efficient mathematical model that simulates tank behavior over extended periods, enabling operators to identify conditions that trigger hydrogen boil-off and adjust operational parameters accordingly. For example, by simply modifying the pressure limits of relief valves during hydrogen transfer, the researchers demonstrated a 26% reduction in fuel loss, highlighting that straightforward operational tweaks can yield major efficiency improvements. This advancement holds considerable real-world implications, especially for companies like Plug Power, which operates hundreds of liquid hydrogen tanks fueling tens of thousands of forklifts critical to supply chains. Even small efficiency gains at this scale can translate into significant cost savings and reduced emissions. The new model, calibrated with real-world data and capable of simulating hundreds of
energyhydrogen-storagefuel-efficiencyclean-energyliquid-hydrogenenergy-modelingfuel-loss-reductionUS lab tests GE Vernova nuclear fuel after 6 years in commercial use
Scientists at the US Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) have begun analyzing advanced nuclear fuel rods developed by Global Nuclear Fuel (GNF), a GE Vernova-led joint venture with Hitachi Ltd., after six years of commercial reactor use. These high burnup fuel rods, designed to enhance nuclear reactor efficiency and reduce spent fuel waste, were manufactured at GNF’s Wilmington, NC facility and operated through extended cycles beyond current US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing limits. The examination at PNNL aims to assess the fuel and cladding performance after prolonged reactor exposure, supporting ongoing development under the DOE’s Accident Tolerant Fuel program. High burnup fuels utilize more fissile material, allowing reactors to operate longer and more efficiently while generating less nuclear waste, which improves fuel cycle economics and safety. The advanced fuel is expected to remain in reactor cores for extended periods, potentially enabling fuel cycle lengths of 36-48 months. GE Vernova plans to use this fuel design
energynuclear-fueladvanced-materialspower-plantsfuel-efficiencynuclear-energyGE-Vernova4th-gen nuclear reactors near US launch as advanced fuel line goes live
BWX Technologies (BWXT) has launched a new production line for Uranium Nitride TRISO fuel at its Lynchburg Technology Center in Virginia, marking a significant step toward supporting Generation IV nuclear reactors. The completion of a chemical vapor infiltration furnace enabled the line to become operational, allowing the facility to produce additively manufactured fuel forms with a higher density of TRISO particles per pellet. TRISO fuel particles feature a uranium core surrounded by carbon and silicon carbide layers designed to contain fission products at extremely high temperatures, enhancing fuel efficiency and potentially reducing reactor system costs. This initiative is part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program (ARDP), which backs BWXT’s BANR high-temperature gas microreactor design. BWXT’s new line focuses on uranium nitride fuel, distinct from its existing uranium oxycarbide TRISO fuel used in the Department of Defense’s Project Pele. The company collaborates with Idaho National Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory to test
energynuclear-energyadvanced-reactorsTRISO-fueladditive-manufacturingmicroreactorsfuel-efficiencyNew hybrid EV by China's Geely, Mercedes offers 1,000-mile range
The Smart #5 EHD is the first plug-in hybrid SUV from Smart, a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and China’s Geely. It features a 40 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery from CATL paired with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 161 horsepower. The hybrid system primarily uses the gasoline engine as a generator, enabling an estimated total driving range of nearly 1,000 miles (995 miles by Chinese standards, approximately 620 miles in real-world conditions). The vehicle offers about 155 miles of pure electric range and fuel efficiency around 53 miles per gallon. It also supports fast charging, replenishing its battery in under 15 minutes, and includes advanced driver-assistance features suggested by a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor. Currently, the Smart #5 is available in all-electric versions with multiple trims offering rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options, horsepower ranging from 335 to 460, and ranges between 354 and 461 miles depending on battery size and
energyelectric-vehicleshybrid-technologylithium-iron-phosphate-batteryCATLplug-in-hybridfuel-efficiencyKoenigsegg’s 46,000 rpm hypercar unleashes jet energy on four wheels
Koenigsegg has unveiled the Sadair’s Spear, a limited-edition hypercar priced at $5.2 million, built on the Jesko platform and designed for extreme track performance while remaining street-legal. This model pays tribute to founder Christian von Koenigsegg’s father, Jesko von Koenigsegg, named after his father’s favorite racehorse. The car features advanced aerodynamic enhancements such as a lightweight double-blade active rear wing, elongated rear design, expanded front canards, and reengineered hood vents, all contributing to superior cooling and increased downforce for optimal handling. At its heart lies Koenigsegg’s twin-turbo V8 engine paired with the innovative flywheel-free Light Speed Transmission (LST), capable of revving up to 46,000 rpm. The engine produces 1,300 hp on regular fuel and an extraordinary 1,625 hp on E85 fuel. The Sadair’s Spear also emphasizes weight reduction
energymaterialsautomotive-technologyhigh-performance-enginescarbon-fiberaerodynamicsfuel-efficiencyHelix reveals new aircraft design that cuts flight fuel use by 90%
Helix, a UK-based electric motor specialist, has unveiled a radical aircraft design aimed at cutting fuel consumption on very short-haul flights (under 250 nautical miles) by up to 90 percent. Their new blueprint, detailed in the white paper “A New Architecture for Aviation,” proposes a three-step redesign for regional and private aircraft that combines a hybrid electric system, lightweight high-density motors, and ducted fan propulsion. This approach reduces fuel burn from around 230 kg per flight to just 23.8 kg, offering a practical path to significantly lower emissions and operating costs using existing technology. The design targets a market segment that accounts for over a quarter of global air traffic and faces high fuel costs, especially as sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) become more expensive. Helix’s solution centers on series hybridization, which pairs a compact liquid-fuel generator with batteries, enabling electric-only operation during critical phases like takeoff and landing, and fuel-powered battery recharging during cruise. This hybrid
energyhybrid-electric-aircraftfuel-efficiencyaviation-technologysustainable-aviation-fuelselectric-motorsshort-haul-flightsChinese carmaker unveils enhanced hybrid EV with 870-mile range
Chinese automaker Chery has unveiled the 2025 model of its Fulwin A8 mid-sized hybrid sedan in five variants, including a new version offering a 43-mile pure electric range. Powered by a 1.5-liter high-efficiency hybrid engine combined with an advanced hybrid system, the Fulwin A8 delivers a total driving range exceeding 870 miles (1,400 km) and a combined fuel consumption of about 51.8 mpg (WLTC). The vehicle features a continuously variable super hybrid DHT transmission with peak mechanical efficiency of 98.5%, supporting four driving modes—Pure Electric, Series Hybrid, Parallel Hybrid, and Direct Engine Drive—to optimize performance and fuel economy. It also includes Level 2 advanced driver assistance with 19 functions for enhanced safety. Inside, the Fulwin A8 boasts a family-friendly dual-screen layout centered around the Lion 5.0 AI smart cockpit system, powered by a Snapdragon 8155 processor. The system runs on a 24.6-inch dual-screen display with rapid 2-second boot-up, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Huawei HiCar for seamless smartphone integration. Positioned as the flagship of Chery’s new energy vehicle lineup launched in late 2023, the Fulwin A8 competes with models like the BYD Qin PLUS DM-i and Geely Galaxy L6. Chery reported strong growth in 2024, with global sales reaching 2.6 million vehicles—a 38% increase year-on-year—and plans to invest further in R&D, production upgrades, and global expansion to strengthen its market presence.
energyhybrid-electric-vehicleAI-smart-cockpitSnapdragon-8155advanced-driver-assistancefuel-efficiencyautomotive-technologyToyota’s liquid hydrogen car conquers Fuji 24-hr race with 468 laps
energyhydrogenfuel-efficiencyautomotive-technologyracing-innovationliquid-hydrogenToyota-Gazoo-RacingChinese automaker unveils flagship hybrid SUV with 930-mile range
energyhybridSUVfuel-efficiencyintelligent-drivingadvanced-driver-assistancenew-energy-vehicleFlying taxi engines produce weird sound, but scientists have found a fix
energyelectric-vehiclesaviationnoise-reductionboundary-layer-ingesting-enginesgreen-technologyfuel-efficiencyBoosted by defense and Starlink, Orca AI pulls in $72.5M for its autonomous shipping platform
autonomous-shippingAI-navigationdefense-technologyIoTfuel-efficiencymaritime-technologyStarlink