Introduction to Energy Efficiency in Transportation
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Energy Efficiency in Transportation course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Introduction to Energy Efficiency in Transportation #
Introduction to Energy Efficiency in Transportation
Energy efficiency in transportation refers to the ability to use less energy to… #
In the context of the Professional Certificate in Energy Efficiency in Transportation, understanding energy efficiency in transportation is crucial to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing energy consumption, and promoting sustainable transportation solutions.
Alternative Fuels #
Alternative Fuels
Alternative fuels are non #
traditional sources of energy used to power vehicles, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Examples include biodiesel, ethanol, hydrogen, natural gas, and electricity. These fuels offer environmental benefits and can contribute to energy efficiency in transportation.
Biofuels #
Biofuels
Biofuels are fuels derived from organic materials such as plants or algae #
Common types of biofuels include biodiesel and ethanol. These fuels are considered renewable and can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions when used in transportation.
Carbon Footprint #
Carbon Footprint
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dio… #
In transportation, carbon footprint refers to the emissions produced by vehicles during operation. By improving energy efficiency, transportation can reduce its carbon footprint.
Electric Vehicles (EVs) #
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Electric vehicles are vehicles powered by electricity stored in onboard batterie… #
EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them a clean and energy-efficient transportation option. Examples of EVs include battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
Fuel Efficiency #
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency measures the amount of fuel consumed by a vehicle to travel a ce… #
Vehicles with higher fuel efficiency require less fuel to operate, resulting in cost savings and reduced environmental impact. Improving fuel efficiency is a key aspect of energy efficiency in transportation.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions #
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions are gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, con… #
In transportation, vehicles emit greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4). Energy efficiency measures can help reduce these emissions.
Hybrid Vehicles #
Hybrid Vehicles
Hybrid vehicles combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor to… #
Hybrid vehicles can operate on both gasoline and electricity, optimizing energy use and reducing environmental impact.
Infrastructure #
Infrastructure
Infrastructure refers to the physical and organizational structures needed to su… #
This includes roads, bridges, public transit systems, charging stations for electric vehicles, and fueling stations for alternative fuels. Developing efficient infrastructure is essential for promoting energy efficiency in transportation.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) #
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
Life cycle assessment is a method used to evaluate the environmental impacts of… #
In transportation, LCA can assess the energy efficiency and environmental performance of vehicles and fuels.
Mass Transit #
Mass Transit
Renewable Energy #
Renewable Energy
Renewable energy is energy derived from natural sources that are replenished con… #
Using renewable energy sources to power transportation can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Sustainable Transportation #
Sustainable Transportation
Sustainable transportation aims to provide efficient, safe, and environmentally #
friendly mobility solutions. It involves promoting energy efficiency, reducing emissions, and minimizing the negative impacts of transportation on communities and the environment.
Transit #
Oriented Development (TOD)
Transit #
oriented development is a planning strategy that focuses on creating compact, mixed-use communities around transit hubs. TOD aims to promote walking, cycling, and the use of public transportation, reducing the need for private vehicles and enhancing energy efficiency in transportation.
Vehicle Emissions #
Vehicle Emissions
Vehicle emissions refer to the pollutants released by vehicles during operation #
These emissions include carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Improving energy efficiency can help reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality.
Zero #
Emission Vehicles (ZEVs)
Zero #
emission vehicles are vehicles that produce no tailpipe emissions during operation. Examples include battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. ZEVs play a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting energy efficiency in transportation.