reinventing your wheels

July 12, 2007

Cars and trucks are essential to our way of life. Without them, our economy would come to a standstill. But they and the fuels they use are also a source of emissions. Every gallon of gasoline includes about 5.5 pounds of carbon, which combines with oxygen when the fuel is burned to create 20 pounds of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas.

Today, researchers at a host of companies, including ExxonMobil and the major automotive manufacturers, are developing technologies to reduce emissions for the next generation.

Many of these technologies are not the stuff of science-fiction movies, but they are very effective. For example, together with tire manufacturers, ExxonMobil is introducing a new tire lining technology that uses up to 80 percent less material in the manufacturing process, making tires lighter and keeping them properly inflated longer. A car with underinflated tires burns up to an extra tank of gasoline every year. Across the economy, that adds up.

Car parts such as bumpers and fuel tanks made from advanced ExxonMobil plastics also improve fuel economy — and consequently reduce emissions — by reducing vehicle weight.

We have also developed a new generation of separator films that are expected to significantly improve the power, capacity and safety of lithium-ion batteries used in hybrid and electric vehicles. This innovation will make batteries lighter, smaller and more durable, helping make these cars more energy efficient and affordable.

And more innovations are on the horizon. One such emerging technology is Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition, or HCCI. Gasoline engines featuring HCCI achieve ignition through compression, like a diesel engine, with very efficient combustion resulting in low emissions. ExxonMobil is working with auto and engine manufacturers on this and other technologies that can improve fuel economy and reduce emissions of CO₂ and air pollutants. When it comes to reducing emissions, motorists can play an important role by driving more efficiently, watching their speed and maintaining their vehicles.

Next week we will use this space to continue discussing technologies that help the environment by focusing on how the fuels we use are made.