DOE announces $96 million for advancing clean vehicle technologies to reduce carbon emissions

July 23, 2022. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $96 million funding opportunity to support decarbonizing the domestic transportation sector. The funding will focus on expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging accessibility, create cleaner non-road vehicles through electrification and the use of alternative fuels, and develop electric drive components and materials to maximize EV efficiency and affordability. Non-road vehicles, including agricultural and construction equipment, rail, marine and aviation, are a major source of pollution, emitting more carbon pollution than any other sector of the U.S. economy. Lowering vehicle emissions will support President Biden’s goal to achieve to net-zero economy by 2050. Further, in accordance with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, applicants for this funding must show how proposed projects will benefit traditionally disadvantaged communities that lack access to clean energy sources.

“To strengthen our transportation sector to support our growing economy, DOE is investing in clean mobility options that will eliminate harmful emissions, reduce our reliance on volatile fossil fuels, and cut energy costs,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Achieving President Biden’s climate goals will require expanding accessibility to electric vehicles for all drivers and modernizing vehicles that power the agricultural and construction industries.”

While decarbonizing on-road vehicles is critical to fighting climate change, it is equally important to research, develop, and deploy clean, non-road engines and fuel technologies for aviation, marine, off-road (e.g., construction, agriculture), and rail. DOE will fund research on non-road engine technologies that are less harmful to the environment and develop electric, natural gas, and other alternatives for fueling and powering non-road engines.

Applicants for the Fiscal Year 2022 Vehicle Technologies Office Program Wide Funding Opportunity Announcement must submit a concept paper by August 25, 2022.