TECHNICAL PROGRAMME | Energy Technologies – Future Pathways
Powering Mobility: The Energy Transition and the Future of Transportation
Forum 24 | Technical Programme Hall 4
30
April
10:00
11:30
UTC+3
The energy transition is fundamentally changing the landscape of mobility, with a growing focus on reducing GHG emissions and improving energy efficiency in transportation. This session will examine the critical role of sustainable energy sources, electric vehicles, and alternative fuels in driving the future of mobility.
Experts will discuss the latest technologies, infrastructure developments, and policy frameworks that are shaping a new era of transportation, where energy and mobility intersect more closely than ever before.
Experts will discuss the latest technologies, infrastructure developments, and policy frameworks that are shaping a new era of transportation, where energy and mobility intersect more closely than ever before.
The rapid expansion of electric vehicle (EV) adoption, particularly in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030's sustainable energy diversification goals, demands advanced battery technologies that ensure both safety and performance at scale. Lithium-metal anodes in high-capacity EV batteries are susceptible to filamentary dendrite growth at the anode/electrolyte interface, significantly impacting battery performance, safety, and the viability of mass EV deployment. In this study, we introduce a modelling framework to achieve dendrite-free electro-deposition by applying constraints to the phase-field evolution, directly addressing key technological barriers to EV battery reliability and longevity. Specifically, dendrite formation is mitigated by constraining the system evolution through a cost function consistent with dendrite-free morphologies essential for safe, long-lasting EV applications. We develop a coupled phase-field model comprising a non-conserved Allen–Cahn equation describing the metal–electrolyte interface dynamics, a reaction–diffusion model capturing ionic transport, and electrostatic charge conservation. We present a comprehensive mathematical formulation amenable to machine learning models, including governing equations, boundary conditions, and energy-based constraints. Leveraging a variational approach to estimate the free-energy functional, we derive a modified phase-field state equation that systematically steers electro-deposition away from dendrite-forming pathways, thereby enhancing battery safety and cycle life crucial for EV market penetration and supporting sustainable transportation goals.
The heavy-duty transport sector—one of the most emissions-intensive and operationally demanding segments of global mobility—faces mounting pressure to improve environmental outcomes while maintaining cost efficiency. Addressing this dual challenge requires not only innovative powertrain technologies but also region-specific evaluations that account for varying fuel prices, infrastructure readiness, and policy environments. This presentation introduces the Heavy-Duty Truck Total Cost of Ownership (HDTTCO) model, a robust techno-economic and life cycle assessment (TEA-LCA) framework developed to evaluate the economic and environmental performance of emerging heavy-duty powertrains across different markets.
The model compares diesel, battery electric, hydrogen internal combustion (H2-ICE), fuel cell electric (FCE), and mobile carbon capture (MCC) technologies over a 15-year operational period, with detailed treatment of fuel costs, carbon intensity, vehicle incentives, and regulatory policies. Applied to both the United States of America (USA) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), the model illustrates how no single technology universally dominates across regions.
In KSA, MCC emerges as the most viable near-to mid-term solution due to its strong cost-effectiveness and compatibility with existing fuel infrastructure. Policy levers such as CO₂ unloading support, higher weight allowances, or carbon pricing could further strengthen its competitiveness. In contrast, in the U.S., high diesel prices enhance the economic attractiveness of alternative powertrains. While BEV, FCEV, and hydrogen combustion technologies hold significant long-term potential for emission reductions, their widespread adoption is contingent on continued cost declines and infrastructure build-out.
The results underscore the need for strategic planning tailored to local conditions and demonstrate how modeling tools like HDTTCO can guide investment decisions, policy design, and sustainable fleet strategy in hard-to-abate transport sectors.
The model compares diesel, battery electric, hydrogen internal combustion (H2-ICE), fuel cell electric (FCE), and mobile carbon capture (MCC) technologies over a 15-year operational period, with detailed treatment of fuel costs, carbon intensity, vehicle incentives, and regulatory policies. Applied to both the United States of America (USA) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), the model illustrates how no single technology universally dominates across regions.
In KSA, MCC emerges as the most viable near-to mid-term solution due to its strong cost-effectiveness and compatibility with existing fuel infrastructure. Policy levers such as CO₂ unloading support, higher weight allowances, or carbon pricing could further strengthen its competitiveness. In contrast, in the U.S., high diesel prices enhance the economic attractiveness of alternative powertrains. While BEV, FCEV, and hydrogen combustion technologies hold significant long-term potential for emission reductions, their widespread adoption is contingent on continued cost declines and infrastructure build-out.
The results underscore the need for strategic planning tailored to local conditions and demonstrate how modeling tools like HDTTCO can guide investment decisions, policy design, and sustainable fleet strategy in hard-to-abate transport sectors.
The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) is an organization composed of 14 automobile manufacturers, dedicated to promoting the stable development of the automotive industry and related sectors, as well as working towards the realization of a prosperous automotive society.
Then JAMA declares that one of its goals for achieving a prosperous society is to fully commit to realizing a carbon-neutral society.
To accomplish this goal, JAMA believes in being technically neutral, meaning it should not focus on a single method (vehicle) for the CN society but should instead have multiple pathways.
Each country has its own optimal path to CN.
Additionally, since liquid fuels have many advantages, JAMA considers CNF (carbon-neutral fuels), such as biofuels and synthetic fuels, to be one of the important pathways to achieve a CN society.
To reduce CO2 emissions through CNF, JAMA is implementing the following activities:
Furthermore, JAMA has the following expectations for the energy industry.
a. Prompt introduction and rapid scaling up of CNF for substantial CO2 reduction on a stock basis.
b. Development and sharing of a roadmap that transcends industries leading up to CN.
c. Standardization of unified fuel quality and environmental standards worldwide
JAMA believes that combining liquid fuels with high-efficiency and high-performance vehicles can also achieve greater CO2 reduction and CN and is actively working towards making this a reality.
Then JAMA declares that one of its goals for achieving a prosperous society is to fully commit to realizing a carbon-neutral society.
To accomplish this goal, JAMA believes in being technically neutral, meaning it should not focus on a single method (vehicle) for the CN society but should instead have multiple pathways.
Each country has its own optimal path to CN.
Additionally, since liquid fuels have many advantages, JAMA considers CNF (carbon-neutral fuels), such as biofuels and synthetic fuels, to be one of the important pathways to achieve a CN society.
To reduce CO2 emissions through CNF, JAMA is implementing the following activities:
- Proposing a "Roadmap" and steps for a CN society utilizing liquid fuels based on the fundamental concept of "Multiple Pathways".
- Clarifying its stance on biofuels as CNF, for example, Bioethanol and Biodiesel.
- Creating statements regarding the introduction of corresponding vehicles, such as E10/E20 compatible vehicles.
- Evaluating the impact of CNF on vehicles and clarifying the corresponding responses.
- Participation and cooperation in the activities of the Japanese and other governments, as well as proposals for initiatives aimed at reducing CO2 emissions through collaboration with the energy industry and joint research.
Examples include:
a. Government-led future fuel public-private council and working group activities.
b. Joint research between JAMA and PAJ (the Petroleum Association of Japan): Research on CO2 reduction through combinations of future fuels and systems.
Furthermore, JAMA has the following expectations for the energy industry.
a. Prompt introduction and rapid scaling up of CNF for substantial CO2 reduction on a stock basis.
b. Development and sharing of a roadmap that transcends industries leading up to CN.
c. Standardization of unified fuel quality and environmental standards worldwide
JAMA believes that combining liquid fuels with high-efficiency and high-performance vehicles can also achieve greater CO2 reduction and CN and is actively working towards making this a reality.
As electric mobility continues to expand, urban areas are confronted with the dual challenge of meeting rising energy demands and achieving environmental sustainability. Hybrid renewable-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging stations—integrating solar photovoltaic (PV), small-scale wind turbines, and battery energy storage—have emerged as a resilient and low-emission solution to support this transition.
This study investigates the design, modeling, and techno-economic performance of hybrid EV charging infrastructure specifically tailored for urban environments with variable renewable resource availability. A system configuration is proposed that combines PV generation, wind energy, and lithium-ion storage, coordinated by a smart control unit capable of real-time optimization. The model uses representative urban load profiles and meteorological datasets to assess key performance metrics such as energy autonomy, carbon emission reduction, and levelized cost of charging (LCOC).
In addition, sensitivity analyses are performed to evaluate system behavior under varying weather patterns, peak demand conditions, and pricing scenarios. Results indicate that hybrid systems provide greater energy reliability and economic efficiency compared to solar-only systems, particularly during extended low irradiance periods. Coupling with time-of-use pricing and demand response strategies further enhances integration with the distribution grid and improves return on investment.
The integration of advanced technologies such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G) interactions and green hydrogen buffering is also briefly examined. This research supports the design of robust, clean mobility infrastructure and offers actionable insights for city planners, energy policymakers, and infrastructure developers aiming to achieve national decarbonization goals.
Co-author/s:
Fatemeh Barati, Researcher, Kharazmi University.
This study investigates the design, modeling, and techno-economic performance of hybrid EV charging infrastructure specifically tailored for urban environments with variable renewable resource availability. A system configuration is proposed that combines PV generation, wind energy, and lithium-ion storage, coordinated by a smart control unit capable of real-time optimization. The model uses representative urban load profiles and meteorological datasets to assess key performance metrics such as energy autonomy, carbon emission reduction, and levelized cost of charging (LCOC).
In addition, sensitivity analyses are performed to evaluate system behavior under varying weather patterns, peak demand conditions, and pricing scenarios. Results indicate that hybrid systems provide greater energy reliability and economic efficiency compared to solar-only systems, particularly during extended low irradiance periods. Coupling with time-of-use pricing and demand response strategies further enhances integration with the distribution grid and improves return on investment.
The integration of advanced technologies such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G) interactions and green hydrogen buffering is also briefly examined. This research supports the design of robust, clean mobility infrastructure and offers actionable insights for city planners, energy policymakers, and infrastructure developers aiming to achieve national decarbonization goals.
Co-author/s:
Fatemeh Barati, Researcher, Kharazmi University.
Kenichi Okamoto
Vice Chair
Director
Japan Petroleum & Carbon Neutral Fuels Energy Center
Hitoshi Hayashi
Speaker
Chair of Fuel & Lubricant Sub-committee
Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA)
The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) is an organization composed of 14 automobile manufacturers, dedicated to promoting the stable development of the automotive industry and related sectors, as well as working towards the realization of a prosperous automotive society.
Then JAMA declares that one of its goals for achieving a prosperous society is to fully commit to realizing a carbon-neutral society.
To accomplish this goal, JAMA believes in being technically neutral, meaning it should not focus on a single method (vehicle) for the CN society but should instead have multiple pathways.
Each country has its own optimal path to CN.
Additionally, since liquid fuels have many advantages, JAMA considers CNF (carbon-neutral fuels), such as biofuels and synthetic fuels, to be one of the important pathways to achieve a CN society.
To reduce CO2 emissions through CNF, JAMA is implementing the following activities:
Furthermore, JAMA has the following expectations for the energy industry.
a. Prompt introduction and rapid scaling up of CNF for substantial CO2 reduction on a stock basis.
b. Development and sharing of a roadmap that transcends industries leading up to CN.
c. Standardization of unified fuel quality and environmental standards worldwide
JAMA believes that combining liquid fuels with high-efficiency and high-performance vehicles can also achieve greater CO2 reduction and CN and is actively working towards making this a reality.
Then JAMA declares that one of its goals for achieving a prosperous society is to fully commit to realizing a carbon-neutral society.
To accomplish this goal, JAMA believes in being technically neutral, meaning it should not focus on a single method (vehicle) for the CN society but should instead have multiple pathways.
Each country has its own optimal path to CN.
Additionally, since liquid fuels have many advantages, JAMA considers CNF (carbon-neutral fuels), such as biofuels and synthetic fuels, to be one of the important pathways to achieve a CN society.
To reduce CO2 emissions through CNF, JAMA is implementing the following activities:
- Proposing a "Roadmap" and steps for a CN society utilizing liquid fuels based on the fundamental concept of "Multiple Pathways".
- Clarifying its stance on biofuels as CNF, for example, Bioethanol and Biodiesel.
- Creating statements regarding the introduction of corresponding vehicles, such as E10/E20 compatible vehicles.
- Evaluating the impact of CNF on vehicles and clarifying the corresponding responses.
- Participation and cooperation in the activities of the Japanese and other governments, as well as proposals for initiatives aimed at reducing CO2 emissions through collaboration with the energy industry and joint research.
Examples include:
a. Government-led future fuel public-private council and working group activities.
b. Joint research between JAMA and PAJ (the Petroleum Association of Japan): Research on CO2 reduction through combinations of future fuels and systems.
Furthermore, JAMA has the following expectations for the energy industry.
a. Prompt introduction and rapid scaling up of CNF for substantial CO2 reduction on a stock basis.
b. Development and sharing of a roadmap that transcends industries leading up to CN.
c. Standardization of unified fuel quality and environmental standards worldwide
JAMA believes that combining liquid fuels with high-efficiency and high-performance vehicles can also achieve greater CO2 reduction and CN and is actively working towards making this a reality.
As electric mobility continues to expand, urban areas are confronted with the dual challenge of meeting rising energy demands and achieving environmental sustainability. Hybrid renewable-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging stations—integrating solar photovoltaic (PV), small-scale wind turbines, and battery energy storage—have emerged as a resilient and low-emission solution to support this transition.
This study investigates the design, modeling, and techno-economic performance of hybrid EV charging infrastructure specifically tailored for urban environments with variable renewable resource availability. A system configuration is proposed that combines PV generation, wind energy, and lithium-ion storage, coordinated by a smart control unit capable of real-time optimization. The model uses representative urban load profiles and meteorological datasets to assess key performance metrics such as energy autonomy, carbon emission reduction, and levelized cost of charging (LCOC).
In addition, sensitivity analyses are performed to evaluate system behavior under varying weather patterns, peak demand conditions, and pricing scenarios. Results indicate that hybrid systems provide greater energy reliability and economic efficiency compared to solar-only systems, particularly during extended low irradiance periods. Coupling with time-of-use pricing and demand response strategies further enhances integration with the distribution grid and improves return on investment.
The integration of advanced technologies such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G) interactions and green hydrogen buffering is also briefly examined. This research supports the design of robust, clean mobility infrastructure and offers actionable insights for city planners, energy policymakers, and infrastructure developers aiming to achieve national decarbonization goals.
Co-author/s:
Fatemeh Barati, Researcher, Kharazmi University.
This study investigates the design, modeling, and techno-economic performance of hybrid EV charging infrastructure specifically tailored for urban environments with variable renewable resource availability. A system configuration is proposed that combines PV generation, wind energy, and lithium-ion storage, coordinated by a smart control unit capable of real-time optimization. The model uses representative urban load profiles and meteorological datasets to assess key performance metrics such as energy autonomy, carbon emission reduction, and levelized cost of charging (LCOC).
In addition, sensitivity analyses are performed to evaluate system behavior under varying weather patterns, peak demand conditions, and pricing scenarios. Results indicate that hybrid systems provide greater energy reliability and economic efficiency compared to solar-only systems, particularly during extended low irradiance periods. Coupling with time-of-use pricing and demand response strategies further enhances integration with the distribution grid and improves return on investment.
The integration of advanced technologies such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G) interactions and green hydrogen buffering is also briefly examined. This research supports the design of robust, clean mobility infrastructure and offers actionable insights for city planners, energy policymakers, and infrastructure developers aiming to achieve national decarbonization goals.
Co-author/s:
Fatemeh Barati, Researcher, Kharazmi University.
Guy Olivier Ngongang Ndjawa
Speaker
Assistant Professor
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
The rapid expansion of electric vehicle (EV) adoption, particularly in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030's sustainable energy diversification goals, demands advanced battery technologies that ensure both safety and performance at scale. Lithium-metal anodes in high-capacity EV batteries are susceptible to filamentary dendrite growth at the anode/electrolyte interface, significantly impacting battery performance, safety, and the viability of mass EV deployment. In this study, we introduce a modelling framework to achieve dendrite-free electro-deposition by applying constraints to the phase-field evolution, directly addressing key technological barriers to EV battery reliability and longevity. Specifically, dendrite formation is mitigated by constraining the system evolution through a cost function consistent with dendrite-free morphologies essential for safe, long-lasting EV applications. We develop a coupled phase-field model comprising a non-conserved Allen–Cahn equation describing the metal–electrolyte interface dynamics, a reaction–diffusion model capturing ionic transport, and electrostatic charge conservation. We present a comprehensive mathematical formulation amenable to machine learning models, including governing equations, boundary conditions, and energy-based constraints. Leveraging a variational approach to estimate the free-energy functional, we derive a modified phase-field state equation that systematically steers electro-deposition away from dendrite-forming pathways, thereby enhancing battery safety and cycle life crucial for EV market penetration and supporting sustainable transportation goals.
The heavy-duty transport sector—one of the most emissions-intensive and operationally demanding segments of global mobility—faces mounting pressure to improve environmental outcomes while maintaining cost efficiency. Addressing this dual challenge requires not only innovative powertrain technologies but also region-specific evaluations that account for varying fuel prices, infrastructure readiness, and policy environments. This presentation introduces the Heavy-Duty Truck Total Cost of Ownership (HDTTCO) model, a robust techno-economic and life cycle assessment (TEA-LCA) framework developed to evaluate the economic and environmental performance of emerging heavy-duty powertrains across different markets.
The model compares diesel, battery electric, hydrogen internal combustion (H2-ICE), fuel cell electric (FCE), and mobile carbon capture (MCC) technologies over a 15-year operational period, with detailed treatment of fuel costs, carbon intensity, vehicle incentives, and regulatory policies. Applied to both the United States of America (USA) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), the model illustrates how no single technology universally dominates across regions.
In KSA, MCC emerges as the most viable near-to mid-term solution due to its strong cost-effectiveness and compatibility with existing fuel infrastructure. Policy levers such as CO₂ unloading support, higher weight allowances, or carbon pricing could further strengthen its competitiveness. In contrast, in the U.S., high diesel prices enhance the economic attractiveness of alternative powertrains. While BEV, FCEV, and hydrogen combustion technologies hold significant long-term potential for emission reductions, their widespread adoption is contingent on continued cost declines and infrastructure build-out.
The results underscore the need for strategic planning tailored to local conditions and demonstrate how modeling tools like HDTTCO can guide investment decisions, policy design, and sustainable fleet strategy in hard-to-abate transport sectors.
The model compares diesel, battery electric, hydrogen internal combustion (H2-ICE), fuel cell electric (FCE), and mobile carbon capture (MCC) technologies over a 15-year operational period, with detailed treatment of fuel costs, carbon intensity, vehicle incentives, and regulatory policies. Applied to both the United States of America (USA) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), the model illustrates how no single technology universally dominates across regions.
In KSA, MCC emerges as the most viable near-to mid-term solution due to its strong cost-effectiveness and compatibility with existing fuel infrastructure. Policy levers such as CO₂ unloading support, higher weight allowances, or carbon pricing could further strengthen its competitiveness. In contrast, in the U.S., high diesel prices enhance the economic attractiveness of alternative powertrains. While BEV, FCEV, and hydrogen combustion technologies hold significant long-term potential for emission reductions, their widespread adoption is contingent on continued cost declines and infrastructure build-out.
The results underscore the need for strategic planning tailored to local conditions and demonstrate how modeling tools like HDTTCO can guide investment decisions, policy design, and sustainable fleet strategy in hard-to-abate transport sectors.
