This module investigates the need for low-carbon systems in urban areas and investigate the introduction of available renewable technologies.

The following topics will be covered:

Internal combustion engines
Core propulsion components
Fuels, additives and lubricants
Fuelling technology
Control of combustion detonation, and design of combustion chambers
Induction and Exhaust Dynamics
Ignition systems and ECUs
Electric propulsion systems
Traction battery technology
Hydrogen for electrical generation and combustion
Combustion of Hydrocarbons, and Emissions control technology

1. An individual report on Engine Design laboratory-based assignment with a specific focus on efficiency and EV range extension. Assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes M1, M2, M3 and M4.

2. A live team presentation (15 minutes) comparing results from the assignment to demonstrate team working skills. Assessing AHEP 4 M16 and M17.

Formative assessment and feedback will be undertaken during the module to assess and develop your learning.

Professional Body requirements mean that a minimum overall score of 50% is required to pass the module with a minimum mark of 40% on a component.

Whole group lectures will be used to deliver new material and to consolidate previous material. Group tutorials, with activities designed to enhance the understanding of the material delivered in the lectures, will be used to apply the skills and knowledge learned. A mixture of classroom based, and practical activities will take place supported by staff. Formative opportunities for informal assessment and feedback will take place through the module to help to assess your learning and support development. Details are below.

Taught Lectures – covers a range of elements, i.e. from basic principles to tasks required to be completed for the same week

Tutorials – to complete weekly tasks, corresponding research, Realis WAVE modelling

Independent study

1. Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of automotive powertrain and emissions control technologies and their applications. (AHEP 4: M1, M2)

Knowledge & understanding
Application & problem-solving

2. Analyse complex problems in the transition from ICEs (Internal Combustion Engines) to electric propulsion. (AHEP 4: M2, M3)

Application & problem-solving

3. Critically analyse technical literature and evaluate range extension and investigate experimental studies on integrating fuel cells with and EV technologies. (AHEP 4: M1, M2, M4)

Research skills

4. Present and reflect upon your range extension application findings and those of your team to a diverse audience (AHEP 4: M7, M16 and M17)

Communication
Reflection

Computer Laboratory Spaces with Realis WAVE software

- Piancastelli, L., et. al. (2026) Practical Piston Engine Design Methods with Examples. AIDAA Educational Series, Paol Emililio Persiani.

- Hordeski, F. H., (2024) Hydrogen Fuel Cells: Advances in Transportation and Power. Taylor & Francis.

- Ehsani, M., Gao, Y., Longo, S., Ebrahimi, K. (2018) Modern Electric, Hybrid Electric, and Fuel Cell Vehicles. Third Edition CRC Press

- Ferguson, C. R., Kirkpatrick, A. T., (2016) Internal Combustion Engines: Applied Thermosciences. Third Edition, Wiley.

- Ronald Heck & Robert Farrauto. (2002). Catalytic Air Pollution Control. 2nd edition. Wiley Interscience

The books listed above for powertrains are recognised standard works in the field, providing rigorous coverage of core and foundational concepts. Although they are not the most recently published texts, they remain widely used and continue to provide essential theoretical grounding, supported by more recent industry publications included in the reading list.

The pollution levels in major cities are exacerbated by vehicle-generated emissions. Pollution is not limited to chemicals from exhausts but also includes noise, heat and particle emissions. This module enables you to explore the sources of pollution and technologies to minimise the emissions.

Computational Analysis plays a major role in modern engine design and development. Indeed, experimentation with new concepts and ideas can be performed within a correctly defined computer model in a cost-effective way, leading ultimately to informed decisions to proceed to new prototype and hardware development. You will learn to use industry standard simulation tools to solve tuning and fuel-efficient designs.