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Post-pandemic cycling boom in major cities, as cyclist safety improved thanks to more and better cycling infrastructure

A new study reveals a post-pandemic cycling boom in major cities, with fatality rates dropping by up to 88% in Paris, 82% in London, and 62% in New York City. The improvement is attributed to the expansion and improvement of cycling infrastructure, including cycleways separated from motor vehicle traffic.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalInternational Journal of Sustainable Transportation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 23, 2026

Turning down the heat

A University of Houston professor has found that tree-like thin films release heat at least three times better than traditional methods, enabling more efficient cooling in AI data centers. The discovery demonstrates the power of physics-aware AI design for validating high-impact cooling solutions.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·DateFeb 12, 2026

Disadvantaged communities in Massachusetts twice as likely to have poor roads—and pay the cost in gas

A new study by University of Massachusetts Amherst engineers highlights the disproportionate impact of poorly maintained roads on residents in disadvantaged communities. The research found that these communities are twice as likely to have poor roads, leading to increased fuel consumption and higher costs for drivers.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 12, 2024

Sailing cargo ships can benefit from new aerodynamic tech

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a unique method to reduce ship aerodynamic drag, which could lead to significant energy efficiency gains and reduced fuel consumption. The method uses the Coanda effect to create a more efficient airflow around the ship's superstructure, reducing drag by 7.5%.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 4, 2023

Researchers propose a fourth light on traffic signals – for self-driving cars

A new approach, called the white phase concept, uses autonomous vehicles to control traffic flow at intersections, reducing fuel consumption and travel time. The system informs human drivers through a clearly identifiable signal, improving safety and efficiency.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 7, 2023

Story tips: Fueling up on savings, COVID’s behavior effect, cosmic collisions, seismic and sound, and space-to-ground comms

Researchers found that speeding can decrease fuel economy by 7% and result in an extra 28 cents per gallon at current US fuel prices. They also studied human behavior during the early days of COVID-19 and simulated cosmic collisions to better understand X-ray emissions.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Transport Geography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 2, 2022

Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers champion LPG as a green alternative ship fuel

Researchers from Korea Maritime & Ocean University found that using LPG as a marine fuel can reduce annual fuel consumption by 7.5-10.4%, fuel cost by 8.8-25.9%, and carbon dioxide emissions by 10-14%. The study also highlights the potential for promoting LPG as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuels.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 11, 2022

New tool can detect a precursor of engine-destroying combustion instability

A team of scientists from Tokyo University of Science has developed a machine learning-based tool to predict thermoacoustic oscillations in engines. The tool uses dynamical systems theory and can classify combustion into three states, identifying pressure fluctuations that indicate future combustion oscillations.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAIAA Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2021

Getting more miles from plug-in hybrids

Researchers at University of California, Riverside developed an energy management system that improves plug-in hybrid efficiency by 12 percent. The system uses machine learning and real-time data to optimize energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateFeb 9, 2016

Civil engineers find savings where the rubber meets the road

A new study by MIT civil engineers finds that stiffer pavements can reduce vehicle fuel consumption by as much as 3 percent and decrease CO2 emissions by 46.5 million metric tons per year, resulting in significant savings and environmental benefits. The study uses mathematical modeling to analyze pavement deflection under vehicle tires...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateMay 22, 2012

Turning off the air conditioning helps save fuel

A study by Empa found that car air conditioning systems account for up to 30% of fuel consumption in hot climates, but turning off the system when the temperature drops below 18°C can save two-thirds of this extra consumption. The study also found that diesel vehicles consume less fuel with air conditioning on than petrol engines.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 22, 2010

Bionic coating could help ships to economize on fuel

Researchers have discovered a way to create superhydrophobic surfaces based on water ferns, which could reduce friction and save up to 1% of global fuel consumption. The coating is made possible by the unique properties of the plant's hairs, which are hydrophobic but also have hydrophilic tips that 'staple' water in place.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 4, 2010

White vans go green

Researchers have designed a new rear spoiler that can reduce drag and lift significantly, resulting in improved fuel consumption and vehicle handling. The spoiler's unique design can improve fuel efficiency by up to several miles per gallon and lower carbon emissions.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Vehicle Design·DateNov 10, 2008

Why eating less can help the environment

A study suggests that eating less, especially junk foods, can reduce the US food system's energy consumption by 50 percent. Traditional farming methods, such as organic farming and reduced pesticide use, can also make a significant impact on energy efficiency.

SourceSpringer·JournalHuman Ecology·DateJul 23, 2008