Research review on vehicle energy recovery technology for energy savings

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive review of the research progress in vehicle energy recovery technologies. It synthesizes regenerative braking systems, with an in-depth exploration of their control strategies and efficiency optimization schemes, alongside regenerative suspension systems—covering both hydraulic and electromagnetic pathways—and waste heat recovery systems. Furthermore, the study analyzes passive aerodynamic energy recovery in vehicle platoons, focusing on the variations in aerodynamic drag and their positive impact on energy recovery. Aerodynamic drag reduction during platooning is specifically defined as “passive energy recovery.” By efficiently recovering braking kinetic energy, suspension vibrational mechanical energy, and vehicle waste heat, while leveraging aerodynamic optimization, various forms of energy dissipated during conventional vehicle operation can be converted into usable electrical power. This integration significantly enhances overall energy efficiency, extends driving range, and reduces carbon emissions. Finally, the paper provides an outlook on future research directions, emphasizing that the collaborative optimization and intelligent control of multi-source energy recovery systems are pivotal to advancing the sustainability of green transportation.