Thermoelectrics to replace car alternators

Published February 12, 2009
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Thermoelectrics is a phenomenon that relies on temperature differences to create electric current and the science behind this has been around for the last two centuries. Thermoelectric power generators create electric current at the junction of two different metals, with heat being absorbed by one metal while being expelled by the other. Such generators date way back to the 1770s, but since the reaction is not known for high efficiency, practical applications of the technology haven't really seen the light of day much.

The only previously known automotive application was seen in 1988 when Porsche experimented thermoelectric generator powered by exhaust heat on a 944 which could generate 20-30W of power, but the tech never made its way beyond the prototype phase. But currently, both Volkswagen and BMW have developed thermoelectric generators that recover the waste heat from an internal combustion engine. Volkswagen's claims its generator is capable of generating up to 600W under highway driving conditions and can meet 30 percent of a car's electrical requirements. BMW's exhaust powered generator has demonstrated an output of 200W over 12,000km of road use.

By taking over the duties of a conventional alternator, these thermoelectric generators can reduce the mechanical load on the engine, thereby increasing the life of various wearable parts and also a reduction in fuel consumption by as much as 5 percent.

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