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A key topic of many technical discussions has been the development of alternative fuels to power the compression ignition engine. Reasons for this include the desire to reduce the dependency on petroleum-based fuel and, at the same time, to reduce the particulate matter (PM) and NOx emissions. Also, there has been interest generated in the diesel engine because of the reduction in greenhouse gases that has been proposed during the 2008-2012 time frame in Europe and the regulations that affect diesel engines in the United States.

Development of higher-voltage electrical systems in vehicles has been slowly progressing over the past few decades. However, tightening vehicle efficiency and emissions regulations and increasing demand for onboard electrical power means that higher voltages, in the form of supplemental 48 V subsystems, may soon be nearing production as the most cost-effective way to meet regulations. The displacement of high-wattage loads to more efficient 48 V networks is expected to be the next step in the development of a new generation of mild hybrid vehicles. In addition to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, 48 V systems could potentially save costs on new electrical features and help better address the emerging needs of future drivers. Challenges to 48 V system implementation remain, leading to discussions by experts from leading car makers and suppliers on the need for an international 48 V standard. Initial steps toward a proposed standard have already been taken.