Thermoelectric Generators in Automotive Applications: A Comprehensive Review of Concepts, Materials, and Integration Strategies

Abstract The transportation sector accounts for nearly one quarter of global primary energy consumption, with internal combustion engines losing more than two-thirds of their fuel energy as waste heat. In the context of the growing interest in energy efficiency and reduction of pollutant emissions, thermoelectric devices stand out as a promising solution, capable of transforming residual thermal energy into electrical power through the Seebeck effect. Use of thermoelectric generators in automobiles is attracting increased interest from the industrial and scientific communities, as harnessing energy from waste heat within exhaust gases may significantly improve energy conversion efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, without moving parts, in a silent, compact and reliable manner. Nevertheless, the widespread adoption remains limited due to low conversion efficiency, material costs, and integration challenges in dynamic vehicle environments. This analysis contributes to a better understanding of the thermoelectric devices potential use in automotive applications and outlines future directions for research and development. In addition, the development of more thermally efficient architectures and the combination with energy storage systems could lead to more viable solutions for electric and hybrid vehicles.