Vehicles

Closed-loop recycling: Improving plastics recycling from end-of-life vehicles

For most US drivers, EVs offer emissions benefits and cost savings

Transient windstorms pose danger to railroad transport—how can we tackle it?

A recent study has developed an analytical model of downburst wind fields, which reproduces key observable features while adhering to fundamental mechanical principles. The model proposes a framework for assessing train overturning due to downbursts, with high train speeds identified as the most significant contributor to increased risk.

FAU study uncovers why pedestrian deaths continue to rise in the US

A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers highlights the role of urban planning in increasing pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities in the US. The study reveals that everyday destinations like grocery stores and pharmacies along busy roads significantly increase risk of serious injury or death.

Tolls saved Britain from pothole hell in the Industrial Revolution, diaries reveal

A new study analyzing nearly 100 travellers' diaries reveals that turnpiking improved road conditions, reducing danger and speeding up journeys. The toll-funded system made a major contribution to the Industrial Revolution by reducing freight rates and enabling faster stagecoach travel.

Smarter than slithering only: AI boosts snakebot movement efficiency

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a new AI-powered snake-like robot that optimizes its movement using deep reinforcement learning. The robot's 'rolling motion' achieves twice the travel speed per unit of power consumption compared to traditional slithering motion, making it more efficient on flat surfaces.

Global EV transition hinges on policy adoption, cost reductions

A new study finds that aggressive policy action and cost reductions can accelerate the global shift to electric vehicles, reducing energy use and carbon emissions. The study suggests a uniform 20% reduction in non-energy costs could dramatically increase EV adoption rates, with market share rising from 25-50% to 70-85% globally by 2035.

MIT researchers measure traffic emissions, to the block, in real-time

A new study by MIT researchers provides a high-resolution picture of auto emissions in NYC, allowing for more effective transportation and decarbonization policies. The method produces detailed data that bridges the gap between citywide emissions inventories and individual vehicle analyses.

Smart windows: Electromagnetic weber beams eliminate blind zones in in-vehicle communications

Researchers developed a smart window that uses electromagnetic Weber beams to eliminate blind zones in in-vehicle communications. The system demonstrates significant improvements in 5G signal power, enabling real-time transmissions of high-fidelity images.

Pioneering detection of lithium plating in lithium-ion capacitors enables safer ultra-fast charging for next-generation energy storage

Researchers developed an accurate detection approach for lithium plating in lithium-ion capacitors, enabling safe exploitation of their full potential. The study reveals that lithium plating initiates at a charging rate of 20 C and can be reversed under certain conditions, but above 50 C, irreversible 'dead' lithium accumulates.

Powering the future: swarm intelligence unlocks optimal integration of distributed generation and fast EV charging in smart cities

A new study uses swarm intelligence to optimize the integration of distributed generation and fast Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in power distribution networks. The approach reduces active power losses by up to 68% and enhances voltage profiles across the network.

New fusion model boosts lithium-ion battery remaining useful life prediction accuracy and reliability for safer electric mobility

A new fusion model combining CNN, GRU, and PF techniques achieves remarkable improvements in lithium-ion battery RUL prediction accuracy. This enhances safety and longevity in electric vehicles and grid applications.

Forget the bulky helmets: Can this “invisible” behind-the-ear patch read your mind and control cars?

Researchers have developed an 'ECI patch' that reads brain signals and controls cars with 93.5% accuracy. The patch, powered by ultra-thin sheets called MXene, detects fatigue and mental states without causing skin irritation.

Improving local transport with autonomous shuttles

The study analyzed 430 test runs in Mannheim and Friedrichshafen, finding that autonomous shuttles can make everyday trips easier, replacing car trips. Users are open to technology as long as they feel safe, and responsibilities need to be clearly defined for reliable operation.

Hybrid ‘super foam’: tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable

Researchers at Texas A&M University and DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory developed a hybrid foam with a 3D-printed plastic skeleton, offering tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable properties. The composite combines ordinary foam with plastic struts, allowing it to absorb more energy and withstand greater forces.

Your car’s tire sensors could be used to track you

Researchers at IMDEA Networks Institute discovered that tire pressure sensors in modern cars can be used to track vehicles and infer movement patterns. The study highlights the need for stronger security measures in future vehicle sensor systems.

The psychology of self-driving cars: Why the technology doesn’t suit human brains

The article highlights the psychological demands of self-driving cars on human brains, citing Professor McLeod's research and personal experience. He emphasizes the need for clearer interfaces, simulation-based training, and updated driving tests to address these challenges and ensure safe automation uptake across society.

NTU Singapore unveils locally designed and built eVTOL aircraft at Singapore Airshow 2026

NTU Singapore has unveiled its first locally designed and built full-sized eVTOL aircraft technology demonstrator, combining aerodynamic efficiency with hovering capability. The aircraft was developed over three years by researchers and engineers, powered by NTU-designed electric motors and featuring eight lift rotors.

LIST tech wins "Oscars" of the composites world

LIST's patented infrared welding process enables rapid assembly of thick carbon-fibre-reinforced thermoplastic components, reducing weight, costs and environmental impact. The innovation is estimated to reduce CO2 emissions by 12.5 tonnes per wing rib.

TU Graz and Magna open the advanced driving simulation center

The Advanced Driving Simulation Center enables researchers to realistically test and optimize vehicles, chassis, and advanced driver assistance systems. The simulator's high bandwidth generates fine vibrations, crucial for optimizing electric vehicle comfort.

Cars and planes could avoid hazardous ice, freezing rain with new sensors

Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a pair of sensors that can detect ice and freezing rain, alerting pilots to potential hazards and reducing crashes. The sensors use microwaves and lasers to detect ice on planes and roads, potentially saving lives by slowing down drivers and preventing accidents.

SEOULTECH researchers reveal strong public support for hydrogen fuel cell trucks

A study by Seoul National University of Science & Technology found that expanding hydrogen fuel cell heavy-duty trucks could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 8.74 million tons. Public willingness to pay for this transition amounts to KRW 572.4 billion, far exceeding the prevailing carbon credit price.

Self-healing composite can make airplane, automobile and spacecraft components last for centuries

Researchers developed a self-healing composite that can repair itself over 1,000 times and extend the lifetime of conventional fiber-reinforced composite materials by centuries. The material targets interlaminar delamination, which occurs when cracks cause fiber layers to separate from the matrix.

Forecasting the impact of fully automated vehicle adoption on US road traffic injuries

A simulation study forecasted potential injury reductions in the US with AV adoption, suggesting a possible decrease in road traffic injuries. However, predicted confidence intervals remain broad, and no scenario reduced injuries outside of these bounds.

Seeing farther: A new camera-based technique detects distant vehicles for safer roads

A new method analyzes nearby vehicle motion to estimate road's trajectory and vanishing point, capturing distant road areas and enhancing safety. The system outperformed conventional and deep learning-based techniques in tests under day and night conditions, reducing intersection-related accidents.

Can AI read humans’ minds? A new model shows it’s shockingly good at it

A breakthrough AI system called OmniPredict can predict human pedestrian behaviors with unprecedented accuracy, revolutionizing self-driving cars and urban mobility. The model combines visual cues with contextual information to anticipate pedestrians' next moves, reducing the risk of accidents and improving traffic safety.

Developing a new electric vehicle sound

A team of researchers designed a custom approach sound library for electric vehicles using low-frequency noise, which was found to be more effective at alerting pedestrians. The sounds were tested with volunteers and ranked highly on criteria such as urgency and noticeability.

Most older drivers aren’t thinking about the road ahead, poll suggests

A new poll suggests that more than 80% of people over 65 drive at least weekly, but less than half have made a plan for when they can no longer drive safely due to health changes. Only 6% of older drivers have discussed their driving with a healthcare provider.

Cheaper cars pollute more than expensive cars, leading to emissions inequality

Research by University of Birmingham scientists reveals that lower-income individuals are more likely to own cheaper, higher-emitting vehicles contributing disproportionately to local urban air pollution. Spending an additional £10,000 on a diesel vehicle is associated with a 40% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions per litre.

Metros cut car use in European cities, but trams fall short

A new study from the Complexity Science Hub found that European cities with a metro system have a significant reduction in car use, with an average of 37% of car trips compared to 50% in cities with only trams and 54% without rail. In contrast, tram cities show no measurable impact on reducing car use.

Heavier electric trucks could strain New York City’s roads and bridges, study warns

A new study warns that the shift to electric freight could intensify the burden on NYC's infrastructure, with heavier batteries increasing annual repair costs by nearly 12%. The study recommends flexible, weight-based fees and expanded weight monitoring to mitigate the risks.

Reduced car commuting is linked to residential environment, health status, and health behaviours – but they explain only a small part of the change

A Finnish study found that residential environments, health status, and health behaviours are associated with reduced car commuting. However, these factors only explained a small part of the overall modal shift towards active and sustainable commuting.

Smarter battery tech knows whether your EV will make it home

Researchers developed a new diagnostic metric called State of Mission (SOM) to predict EV battery performance based on both battery data and environmental factors. SOM significantly reduced prediction errors compared to traditional methods.

Lighting the way for electric vehicles by using streetlamps as chargers

A team of researchers at Penn State developed a framework to use existing streetlights as EV chargers, resulting in cheaper installation costs and faster charging speeds. The study found that this approach offers an equitable and sustainable solution for expanding charging infrastructure, particularly in urban areas.

Research shows significant association between emergency department visits for firearm and motor vehicle-related crashes

Researchers found nearly one in four children with firearm injuries returned to the emergency room within four years with another violent or crash-related injury. The study suggests a significant association between motor vehicle crashes and firearm injury, indicating a need for prevention strategies.

PSU research shows Portland transit-oriented developments reduce car trips, especially at affordable housing sites

A new study by Portland State University's Transportation Research and Education Center (TREC) reveals that transit-oriented developments (TODs) in the Portland metro area generate significantly fewer car trips than previously estimated. At affordable housing sites, car trips were reduced to only a quarter to two-fifths of expected rates.

NRL's CCOR-2 set to boost space weather forecasting capabilities

CCOR-2 is designed to provide high-fidelity coronal imaging and detect Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) closer to the solar disk. This will enable accurate measurements of coronal density and velocity, ultimately improving space weather forecasting capabilities.

An insect-scale flapping-wing micro aerial vehicle inspired by tumblers capable of uncontrolled self-stabilizing flying

Researchers developed a cylindrical air damper to improve the self-stabilization performance of flapping-wing micro-aircraft. The Tumbler FWMAV demonstrated breakthrough stabilization performance, with vertical stabilization duration improved by 5-fold and horizontal offset motion reduced by ±100 mm.

Rented e-bicycles more dangerous than e-scooters in cities

A recent study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that rented e-bikes have an eight times higher crash risk than rented e-scooters, calculated based on trip distance. The researchers used GPS data to compare micromobility in seven European cities and found a surprising result.

Electric car sharing and smart charging

A study by Empa researchers found that electric car sharing can reduce emissions by up to 82%, but achieving cost savings and low-emission charging simultaneously is rare. The optimal charging strategy would require real-time tariff models, automated systems, and incentives like CO₂ prices.

New self-assembling material could be the key to recyclable EV batteries

MIT researchers developed a sustainable electrolyte that quickly breaks down when submerged in organic solvents, allowing for easy recycling of components. The new material could revolutionize the battery industry by simplifying the recycling process and reducing electronic waste.

Ideas for aerodynamic drag reduction for 400km/h high-speed trains

Researchers achieved a significant reduction in aerodynamic drag by optimizing multiple train components, including nose shape and pantograph design. The study found that simultaneously enhancing these components can deliver notable improvements and even certain bogie fairing configurations might offer advantages over traditional designs.

A new Concordia study reimagines parcel delivery with robots, EVs and lockers

A new Concordia study reimagines parcel delivery by integrating electric vehicles, autonomous delivery robots, and self-service lockers to prioritize high-value customers like Amazon Prime members. The innovative model cuts route and vehicle use costs by up to 53% compared to traditional methods.

Overtaking the odds: Do passing zones make rural roads safer?

Researchers found that roads with passing zones have 11% fewer total crashes and 12% fewer fatal/injury-causing crashes compared to sections without marked passing zones. The study suggests that wider, straighter, flatter roads with more visibility are associated with lower crash risk.

Illinois Tech hosts EV Readiness Community Awards, showcasing nation-leading energy innovation

The Illinois Tech EV Readiness Community Awards celebrate local governments leading the transition to electric vehicles, with a focus on energy innovation and sustainability. The university's campus-wide transformation showcases its resilience and sustainability as a model for urban energy systems of the future.

Air purifiers may reduce heart risks for people exposed to traffic pollution

A new study published in JACC found that using portable HEPA air filters at home can significantly lower systolic blood pressure in adults with elevated readings. The study found an average 2.8 mmHg reduction in SBP after one month of HEPA filtration.

Mortality among surgeons in the United States

A recent study reveals that surgeons in the United States have a disproportionately high mortality rate compared to other highly educated professionals, including nonsurgeon physicians. The study suggests that factors such as work environment and lifestyle may contribute to this disparity.

Curbing roadway fatalities hinges on shared responsibility and rethinking safety

A Safe Systems Approach emphasizes that road users, designers, operators, policymakers, administrators, and healthcare professionals all have a role to play in reducing fatalities. By adopting this approach, countries can realize significant success in eliminating roadway deaths, but full commitment from stakeholders is necessary.

Teens report spending 21% of each driving trip looking at their phone

A new study found that teen drivers spend an average of 21.1% of each trip viewing their mobile behind the wheel, with entertainment being the most common distraction. The study also revealed that many young drivers believe they can withstand the pressure to drive distracted and perceive a social norm of the behavior.

New test will help driverless cars make ‘moral’ decisions

Researchers developed a technique to study moral decision-making while driving, testing it on 274 philosopher participants. The results showed consistency across different philosophical schools of thought regarding what constitutes moral behavior in the context of driving.

Should government incentivize EV adoption through consumer tax credits or infrastructure?

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers suggests that investing in EV charging infrastructure is more effective than offering consumer tax credits to boost adoption. The study found that increasing EV adoption could reduce emissions by 51% and increase sales by 26% by building Level 3 fast-charging stations.

TU Graz study: front brake lights could significantly reduce the number of road accidents

A recent study from Graz University of Technology found that adding front brake lights to vehicles can prevent up to 17% of collisions at road junctions. The research used accident reconstruction and simulation to analyze the effect of the added lights on road safety.

Study shows making hydrogen with soda cans and seawater is scalable and sustainable

A new process using seawater and recycled soda cans can produce green hydrogen with a low carbon footprint comparable to other green hydrogen technologies. Researchers found that the overall emissions of this method are on par with those of fossil-fuel-based processes, making it a scalable and sustainable option for energy production.

Study: Emotional responses crucial to attitudes about self-driving cars

A new study from Washington State University examines the role of emotional responses in shaping public attitudes toward self-driving cars. Researchers found that feelings of excitement and curiosity, as well as beliefs in technology's social benefits, play a significant role in determining whether people would adopt autonomous vehicles.

New study: Teen drivers safer with more practice

A new study by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that teen drivers who practiced more had 30% fewer crash or near-crash incidents. Researchers analyzed data from 82 teen drivers monitored for 22 months, revealing that supervised driving experiences and safety education are crucial for reducing novice driver risks.

New fuel cell could enable electric aviation

Researchers at MIT have developed a new fuel cell that can carry three times as much energy per pound as current EV batteries, offering a lightweight option for electrifying transportation systems. The technology has the potential to enable electric aviation and other sectors like marine and rail transportation.

Motorcycle helmet laws save lives: Study shows universal laws increase helmet use and reduce injury severity

A study found that universal helmet laws in North Carolina resulted in higher helmet use rates (94%) compared to South Carolina (47%), leading to less severe injuries. The study also highlighted the human toll of not wearing helmets, including longer ICU stays and more ventilator support.

No car, no problem: Unlikely car-free families

A new study from the Hebrew University explores middle-class parents in Israel who choose to live car-free due to personal values like promoting children's independence and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These 'outlier' families offer valuable insights into reducing society's dependence on private vehicles, highlighting instrumental ...

Vehicle age and driver assistance technologies in fatal crashes involving teen and middle-aged drivers

This study finds that teen drivers in older vehicles are more likely to be involved in fatal crashes, highlighting the need for safer vehicles. The study's authors stress the importance of ensuring teens drive newer vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance technologies.

Cracking the code: deciphering how concrete can heal itself

A synthetic lichen system developed by Texas A&M researchers enables concrete to heal itself without outside intervention. This innovation uses cyanobacteria and filamentous fungi to produce crack-filling minerals, setting it apart from previous self-healing concrete endeavors.