The chapter considers the current state and trends in the field of heat recovery units for vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE), including thermoelectric generators for cars, motorcycles, ships and railway transport. Based on the analysis of literature data, mathematical modeling and experimental studies, this chapter presents various designs of such generators. This research considers a heat exchange between exhaust gas (EG) and thermoelectric modules (TEM), as well as how their usage affects ICE operation. Furthermore, the chapter profoundly explores the challenges of installing thermoelectric generator (TEG) on vehicle system. In addition, the ways of increasing overall system efficiency, by optimizing the flow channel and reducing electrical power losses, are presented.
Part of the book: Bringing Thermoelectricity into Reality