Decarbonizing Transportation With Flywheel Energy Storage Systems: Current Trends and Future Prospects in Sustainable Mobility

Abstract

Flywheel energy storage systems (FESS) have emerged as a sophisticated methodology for energy recuperation, power transmission, and eco-friendly transportation. These systems utilize state-of-the-art high-speed rotors, attaining rotational velocities that surpass 100 000 rpm through the application of carbon fiber-reinforced composites, which augment energy density while minimizing material deformation. Furnished with magnetic bearings, FESS effectively lowers friction and supports elevated rotational speeds, delivering power outputs that can reach up to 10 kW/kg. Recent progress in control algorithms, encompassing neural networks and predictive maintenance frameworks, guarantees meticulous energy management, thereby diminishing energy losses and enhancing reliability. The hybrid integration of FESS with batteries or supercapacitors further refines energy recovery, effectively addressing the constraints associated with standalone systems. Significant applications encompass hybrid vehicles, wherein FESS facilitates fuel savings of up to 35% in urban traffic scenarios, and rail systems, where the recuperation of braking energy leads to a reduction in energy consumption by 30%. Public transit buses outfitted with FESS exhibit fuel savings of 45%, while motorsport applications leverage FESS for immediate energy surges, underscoring their adaptability. Notwithstanding these merits, challenges such as gyroscopic phenomena, standby energy losses, and substantial initial investment costs continue to persist, necessitating advancements in nanotechnology and IoT-enabled monitoring systems to bolster performance. As international initiatives aimed at decarbonizing transportation gain momentum, FESS is strategically positioned to assume a crucial role in sustainable mobility by facilitating efficient energy storage, curtailing emissions, and ensuring enduring reliability. This review elucidates emerging trends, numerical advancements, and the overarching implications of FESS, thereby providing a comprehensive framework for prospective research and development in next-generation energy solutions.