Can flywheel energy storage systems improve vehicular performance and sustainability?

Examined the pivotal role of Flywheel Energy Storage Systems (FESS) in enhancing vehicular performance and sustainability. Conducted a comprehensive analysis of FESS technologies and their integration with current vehicle powertrain systems. Evaluated the benefits and challenges of FESS in automotive applications.

What is a flywheel energy storage system?

Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is one of the major application areas of flywheel energy storage systems. Power failures can cause huge losses in businesses and commercial workstations. Flywheel UPS systems can be used to overcome the problems faced by sudden dips or glitches in electric and voltage supplies.

What are flywheels used for?

Flywheels are used as intermediate energy storage systems for transport applications such as automobiles. Flywheel storage energy systems are more commonly used in Formula 1 cars and hybrid vehicles. However, manufacturers such as Maruti Suzuki have adopted this technology for passenger vehicles also.

Which countries use flywheel energy storage?

Some of the major automobile manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Mercedes Benz, and Porsche are headquartered in this country. Thus, the growing automobile industry is one of the biggest drivers of the flywheel energy storage market in Germany. The UK is committed in making use of renewable sources for energy storage.

What is a flywheel design?

The primary goal in flywheel design is to maximise specific energy storage, guided by the stress limits that the materials can withstand. Employing high-strength materials or composites allows for a reduction in mass while permitting higher rotational speeds, which in turn, enhances the specific energy storage capacity .

What are the advantages of a flywheel?

Magnetic and cryogenic bearings, which minimise energy losses due to friction and improve system longevity and efficiency. Vacuum chambers, which reduce air resistance (windage losses), allowing the flywheel to operate at higher speeds with minimal thermal energy dissipation.