Reducing CO2 emissions from automobiles and trucks Term Paper

Reducing CO2 emissions from automobiles and trucks - Term Paper Example The auto industry sector is playing a leading role by proposing and embracing ways in which these emissions can be reduced in both its products and production sites. Various strategies are being used to reduce the emissions from automobiles and trucks as more research is being conducted to come up with better solutions (US DOT, 2010). This paper will discuss the current methods being used to reduce Co2 emissions from automobiles and other proposed methods that are still being reviewed. In the US, according to Dupont (2009), The National Highway Traffic safety Administration department (NHTSA) together with the Environmental Protection Agency have extended the National programme for reducing greenhouse gases emissions such as Co2 for Model years 2017 through 2025. In Europe, the automobile manufacturers have come up with practical, innovative and practical ways of reducing carbon dioxide emissions to show their commitment in achieving cost effective carbon dioxide reductions. Reductio n of Carbon dioxide emissions calls for an integrated approach as no single approach can work out on its own. New developments in motor vehicle technology need to be combined with alternative sources of fuel, efficient car use and driving style, improved traffic management, and imposing carbon tax. For this to succeed, the automotive industries, fuel sector, policy makers and drivers must work t in partnership to achieve the desired results (Zachariadis, 2012). Various Ways of reducing CO2 Emissions from Automobiles and Trucks The most widespread method that is adopted is the introduction of low carbon fuels. These alternative fuel sources include bio diesel, natural gas, electricity, liquefied petroleum gas, and hydrogen. Research shows that these alternative methods apply for light-duty vehicles. Carbon dioxide reduction benefits from using renewable fuels depend on the production method of the fuel, the raw materials, carbon intensity of energy used in the production and the time frame evaluation. Research by the United States Transport Department (2010) shows use of advanced biofuels from cellulosic sources yields more benefits compared to first generation biofuels. Car engines are being adjusted in the current times and alternative fuels are being produced in large scale. Use of hydrogen in fuel could reduce about 80% of Carbon dioxide emissions per vehicle in the long term for a period of about 25 years or more. In case of electric vehicles, low carbon energy sources must be used in the battery technology in order to significantly reduce carbon emissions in the long term by about 80% (DOT, 2010). The second method that is being practiced in carbon emission reductions is increasing vehicle fuel economy. This method involves development and market introduction of advance engines and transmission models, materials that are light, improved vehicle aerodynamics with reduced rolling resistance. Currently, there are many technologies entering the market tailore d for different consumer preferences, usage and driving styles. In the past more than 50 new carbon dioxide reducing technologies in vehicles have been introduced by ACEA members, reducing carbon emissions by 13% and other technologies are coming up