Automotive industry ecologization: advantages and challenges of alternative fuel vehicles implication

Abstract

In this research we investigate the ecologization process of automotive market. It is a replacement of internal combustion engine (ICE) working on oil derivatives with hybrid or electric vehicles and automobiles on methane, hydrogen or biofuel. Growing demand for alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) should trigger technology and infrastructure development, alternative energy elaboration and more environment- friendly means of hydrogen production. Besides, AFVs expansion should be an incentive to decrease hydrocarbons dependence in automotive industry, to diminish anthropogenic influence on environment, as well as to generate eco-friendly lifestyle and driving habits. In Russia’s climate and economic conditions, expansion of methane fuel automobiles maybe a priority. At an initial stage it will insignificantly reduce greenhouse gas emission, but later on will lower particulate matters emissions and raise public awareness of AFVs.