Technical 20 www.aftermarketonline.net FEBRUARY 2025 Taking the alternative route PHINIA chief technology officer Todd Anderson looks at the role of alternative fuels in the clean energy transition — and how the aftermarket provides key support by keeping existing vehicles on the road longer The road to netzero isn’t a singlelane highway, and engines powered by carbon neutral and carbon free alternative fuels like hydrogen and ethanol are critical routes running alongside EVs, especially in applications where EVs face practical limitations. However, realising the full potential of these fuels requires addressing critical infrastructure challenges — a task that demands collaborative efforts similar to those driving the development of EVs. The journey toward net-zero emissions is far from uniform — it varies dramatically across regions and is shaped by local economic, regulatory, environmental, and infrastructural realities. A prime example is the influence of China’s strong push for low-cost EVs. While this strategy works within China’s robust policy framework and expanding EV infrastructure, it sets off a ripple effect in neighbouring regions like southeast Asia, where the story is quite different. Southeast Asia often imports used Chinese vehicles once they reach about five years old. While this trend provides affordable transportation options for these markets, it also raises a critical question: how will these countries manage the growing influx of EVs when their power grids are neither equipped to support widespread electrification nor likely to be upgraded to that level in the foreseeable future? For such regions, the focus must shift toward viable alternatives. Biofuels and ethanol present effective solutions, leveraging existing infrastructure and reducing emissions without requiring a complete overhaul of energy systems. The potential of alternative fuels is undeniable, but the road ahead is not without obstacles, with underdeveloped infrastructure blocking progress. Hydrogen refuelling stations and ethanol distribution networks require significant investment, much like the charging networks which are critical to developing market adoption of EVs. Even with progress in infrastructure, alternative fuels like hydrogen face persistent misconceptions that could slow their adoption. Safety, for example, remains a top concern. However, modern safety standards and technological understanding ensure that hydrogen can be used and transported securely, just as it has been in industrial applications for decades. The automotive industry is navigating a complex regulatory landscape, with varying emissions standards across regions. Meeting these requirements while delivering practical solutions requires a balanced approach. This is where the aftermarket sector plays a pivotal role. By keeping existing vehicles on the road longer and optimising their efficiency with quality parts, we can reduce the carbon cost associated with manufacturing new vehicles. At PHINIA, we are committed to driving innovation in alternative fuels. From hydrogenpowered vehicles to ethanol engines, our initiatives reflect a deep belief in the power of practical, incremental progress. The clean energy transition isn’t a sprint — it’s a marathon. By embracing a diverse range of solutions, we can advance a sustainable future with the urgency required for decarbonisation goals. After all, the road to net zero is paved not with perfection, but with progress. Todd Anderson
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