Study and Analysis of the Integration of Energy Recovery Systems in Hybrid Vehicles

Abstract The recovery of thermal and kinetic energy dissipated during the operation of a vehicle is a current approach to increase energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact in the automotive sector. In the case of hybrid vehicles, where both the electric and thermal engines are used, the recovery of these lost energies can significantly contribute to improving autonomy and overall efficiency. This paper presents a study on the development of an energy recovery system for hybrid vehicles, by recovering the energies otherwise lost during operation. The proposed system integrates three distinct mechanisms, the recovery of thermal energy from brake discs and exhaust gases using thermoelectric generators (TEG), as well as the transformation of kinetic energy from the damping system into electrical energy through a recovery mechanism, which involves the use of the pressure generated during operation and its transformation into electrical energy, as the damper compresses and rebounds during vehicle motion, its internal pressure variations drive a linear or rotary generator mechanism. For thermal energy recovery, the system uses thermoelectric generators, which convert temperature gradients directly into electrical energy through the Seebeck effect. When installed on brake discs and exhaust pipes, these devices capture waste heat that would otherwise dissipate into the environment. The study examines optimal TEG placement, temperature values obtained, and cooling strategies to maximize energy conversion efficiency while maintaining component reliability under varying operating conditions. The generated energy will be stored in the vehicle’s batteries and used to power auxiliary systems, such as lighting, the infotainment system or other equipment that uses electrical energy. The study evaluates the efficiency potential of these systems, the impact on the vehicle’s autonomy with their integration into the existing vehicle system, with the aim of expanding the research area to other systems where there are energy losses in the future and also explore scaling possibilities for electric vehicles and heavy-duty transportation, where energy recovery could yield even greater benefits.