A comparative LCCO₂ emissions analysis of mass-produced ICEV, HEV, BEV and FCV with the use of HVAC system

Abstract

This study systematically analyzed life cycle CO₂ (LCCO₂) emissions of a comprehensive set of mass-produced large sedan-type vehicles. ICEV (gasoline and diesel), HEV as well as BEV and FCV were investigated following current market trends. The results show that an annual average increment of CO₂ emissions in use phase by HVAC system in Japan (assumed annual average 15 °C) is evenly 8 %. The CO₂ emissions in use phase of BEV are higher than those of HEV and FCV (applied hydrogen produced by steam reforming of LPG (on-site)) due to current thermal power dominant electricity generation mix in Japan. As the consequence of high CO₂ emissions from power supply and battery pack production, the LCCO₂ emissions of BEV equipped with 75 kWh battery pack are equivalent to those of conventional ICEV (gasoline). By reducing the battery pack capacity to 20 kWh, the LCCO₂ emissions of BEV become lower than those of ICEVs (gasoline and diesel) and FCV (on-site). In other words, it is difficult that BEV mitigates both LCCO₂ emissions and driver's range anxiety. In conclusion, HEV shows the most competitive performance in terms of LCCO₂ emissions reduction with sufficient driving range in Japan.