Adaptive Cycle Engines vs. Electric Motors: A Comparison on Standard Drive Schedules

Adaptive Cycle Engines, where compression and expansion events do not follow a fixed sequence but rather take place depending on demand, are competitive against electric motors because of their higher power density, lower carbon footprint with current energy sources, and predicted ability to use any kind of renewable fuel. The advantage of Adaptive Cycle Engines is greater whenever the powerplant has at least two distinct operating modes: one for high output, and one for high energy economy. This paper compares the well-to-wheels CO₂ emissions and pre-tax costs when operating powerplants based on Adaptive Cycle Engines and on electric motors under several scenarios: passenger car, on-road heavy-duty vehicle, and light aircraft.