Advances in automated driving and vehicle connectivity (V2V, V2I, V2X) will in the near future allow for the widespread deployment of semi-autonomous and fully-autonomous (driverless) vehicles. It is generally assumed that such autonomous vehicles will be EVs, but pure EVs will continue to comprise only a small fraction of all vehicles in the 2030 timeframe.

As a result a large number of connected or autonomous vehicles will utilize combustion engines in conventional or hybrid powertrains. Semi- or fully-autonomous operation takes the driver out of the loop with respect to engine control and vehicle operation, while also potentially allowing for more fuel efficient drivetrains and more energy efficient operation overall.

ARPA-E is interested in fuel efficient technologies for vehicles that take advantage of current and future vehicle connectivity and semi- or fully-autonomous operation, on a fuel-agnostic basis. Areas of interest for this Workshop and targeted outcomes include:

• Powertrain architecture and hardware: the identification of advanced engine and powertrain technologies that will improve future vehicle fuel economy under real-world driving conditions; and

• Powertrain control technologies: the identification of advanced engine and powertrain control technologies and strategies that take advantage, on an individual vehicle basis, of vehicle connectivity and/or semi- and fully-autonomous operation to improve fuel efficiency.

To express an interest in attending please contact Dr. Chris Atkinson, ARPA-E Program Director.