Thermophotovoltaic Generation of Power for Use in a Series Hybrid Vehicle

Rather than converting heat energy into mechanical energy in an internal combustion engine and then converting mechanical energy into electrical energy in a magnetic field, thermophotovoltaic (TPV) generators work by directly converting heat energy in the form of infrared radiation into electricity using photovoltaic cells. A series hybrid vehicle uses this electrical energy to keep the batteries at a constant state of charge. These batteries then provide the energy for the electric motor, which propels the vehicle down the road.