Monday, October 21, 2024 | 8:00am – 9:15am
Welcome Remarks and Keynote
Charles E. Roberts, Jr., Ph.D.
Executive Director, Commercial Vehicle Systems
Southwest Research Institute
Keynote Title: Realities of the Evolution of the Transport Industry
Abstract: The transport industry is at a crossroads, driven by rapid technological advancements, evolving regulatory landscapes, and changing consumer expectations. This presentation explores the future direction of both human and goods transport, emphasizing the different trajectories and requirements for each sector.
Electrification has moved beyond its initial hype, facing real-world challenges in scaling infrastructure, battery production, and energy supply. We will assess the current state of electrification, highlighting both progress and persistent obstacles. Despite the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), internal combustion engines (ICEs) continue to show remarkable efficiency improvements. This session will explore the latest advancements in ICE technology and their future prospects.
Hybrid powertrains are re-emerging as a significant component of the transportation landscape, offering a balance between traditional ICE and electric propulsion. We will discuss the benefits of hybrid systems in enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
The presentation will also delve into alternative fuels, including biofuels, e-fuels, and renewable fuels, examining their development and potential to complement or replace conventional fuels. Hydrogen internal combustion engines present unique engineering challenges and opportunities, and we will provide insights from recent hydrogen ICE demonstrator projects, highlighting achievements and lessons learned.
Finally, we will explore the concept of sub-zero emissions vehicles (SZEVs) enabled by advanced ICE chemical processing, examining the technological innovations required to achieve this ambitious goal and its potential impact on the transport industry's environmental footprint.
Join us as we navigate the complexities and realities of the evolving transport industry, providing a balanced perspective on the future of mobility and sustainability. This presentation aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities ahead, fostering a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of transportation evolution.
Biography: Dr. Roberts manages the SwRI Commercial Vehicle emissions laboratories, which provide engine and emissions development and certification activities to heavy-duty and non-road vehicle companies worldwide. Dr. Roberts also oversees all heavy-duty and non-road powertrain systems advanced R&D activities, including internal research programs and advanced R&D for external clients. Dr. Roberts previously held the title of Institute Engineer at SwRI, where he managed SwRI's Powertrain Consulting Service, providing consulting to transportation industry clients worldwide. In his current role, Dr. Roberts continues to act as a SwRI liaison to regulatory agencies such as the U.S. EPA, DOE, CARB and others.
Dr. Roberts currently oversees and previously managed the SwRI Clean Diesel program, one of the world's longest-running and largest diesel engine cooperative research consortia, consisting of more than 25 client-companies from around the world. Dr. Roberts is an original patent-holder and previous program manager for the SwRI HEDGE® technology and cooperative research program, where cooled exhaust gas recirculation and turbocharging technologies are being developed toward production for the light-duty gasoline industry.