1. Introduction

In the context of increasingly serious global climate change, the transportation industry, as one of the important carbon emission areas, has received great attention. As one of the core areas of the transportation industry, vehicle engineering also faces various challenges and impacts brought about by climate change. Therefore, studying the impact of climate change on vehicle engineering and proposing corresponding countermeasures has important practical significance and far-reaching research value.

Some domestic studies have shown that climate change has a significant impact on vehicle performance and energy use [1]. For example, in extremely high-temperature environments, high temperatures have a negative impact on the working effect of the cooling system and air conditioning system of the vehicle engine, which can easily lead to engine overheating or air conditioning system failure. In addition, climate change has an impact on vehicle handling [2]. For example, in rainy weather, slippery roads have an impact on the vehicle’s braking distance and grip [3].

Foreign research has also delved into the impact of climate change on vehicle engineering from different perspectives. Some studies have focused on the impact of climate change on vehicle fuel economy. They found that the fuel consumption of vehicles increases significantly in climates with warmer temperatures [4]. This is mainly due to increased heat loss from the engine in high-temperature environments and frequent use of air conditioning. In addition, climate change also has a significant impact on the durability and corrosion performance of vehicle materials. Factors such as extreme temperatures and precipitation can cause damage and corrosion to the vehicle’s exterior paints and interior components, thereby shortening the life of the vehicle.

This paper aims to explore the direct and indirect impacts of climate change on vehicle engineering and propose countermeasures. To achieve this, this paper combines empirical research and literature review methods. The direct and indirect impacts of climate changes on vehicle engineering are explored, which contributes to the future development of vehicles.

2. Analysis of the impact of climate change on vehicle engineering

2.1. The impact of climate change on the development of vehicle engineering

Climate change is one of the major challenges facing the world today. The emission of greenhouse gases and the increase in pollutants such as soot and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere have led to significant changes in the global climate. For vehicle engineering, these changes have many implications.

First, climate change is exacerbating environmental pressures in vehicle engineering. Climate warming leads to frequent extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and flooding. This not only has a direct impact on road traffic, such as road damage, traffic congestion, etc. but also puts forward higher requirements for the performance and service life of vehicles. The vehicle’s flood resistance, driving safety, and waterproofing of the equipment all need to be strengthened.

Second, climate change places higher demands on vehicle design and development. In the context of a warming climate, vehicles need to adopt more environmentally friendly, low-carbon solutions. For example, the fuel efficiency of cars needs to be further improved to reduce CO2 emissions. In addition, new materials and technologies need to be used to improve the vehicle’s adaptability and stability.

Furthermore, climate change affects the supply chain management of vehicle engineering. Climate warming leads to frequent natural disasters, such as droughts and floods, which pose a serious threat to the stability and efficiency of supply chains. Vehicle engineering needs to take corresponding measures to strengthen supply chain management to ensure the reliable supply of raw materials and the stable operation of production [5].

Climate change is also driving the transformation and upgrading of vehicle engineering. In the face of the challenge of climate change, traditional fuel vehicles face many problems and limitations. Therefore, the development of new energy vehicles has become a top priority. The development of emerging technologies such as electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel vehicles has brought new development opportunities for vehicle engineering. These new technologies not only reduce pollutant emissions but also improve vehicle performance and driving experience.

2.2. The impact of low-carbon transportation on the development of vehicle engineering

Low-carbon transportation refers to modes of transport that aim to reduce emissions and energy consumption. With the increasing concern of society on environmental protection and sustainable development, low-carbon transportation has become an important trend in the development of vehicle engineering. It has had many positive effects on the development of vehicle engineering.

The development of low-carbon transportation has led to technological innovation and structural adjustment in the field of vehicle engineering. In order to reduce carbon emissions, automakers continue to develop new technologies, such as electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, to replace traditional fuel vehicles. The application of these new technologies not only improves the energy efficiency of vehicle engineering, and reduces the dependence on fossil energy, but also reduces tailpipe emissions, which plays a positive role in improving air quality and reducing environmental pollution.

The promotion of low-carbon transportation has also brought new market opportunities for vehicle engineering. Driven by low-carbon transportation policies, more and more consumers are choosing to buy environmentally friendly vehicles. This opens up new demands and market space in the field of vehicle engineering. Automakers are launching models that meet the requirements of low-carbon transportation to meet consumer demand and achieve market competitive advantage.

The development of low-carbon transportation puts forward new requirements for the research and design of vehicle engineering. Low-carbon transportation requires more efficient, lightweight, and intelligent vehicle design. For vehicle engineers, they need to reduce the energy consumption and carbon emissions of vehicles as much as possible without sacrificing vehicle safety and performance. This requires them to conduct in-depth research and innovation in terms of material selection, vehicle structure design, powertrain optimization, etc.

2.3. The impact of climate change on vehicle safety

In today’s context of global climate change, vehicle safety is becoming increasingly important. Extreme weather and unstable climatic conditions brought about by climate change have a direct and indirect impact on vehicle safety. First, climate change has led to more frequent and severe natural disasters, such as storms, floods, and blizzards. These disasters have caused damage to road infrastructure and increased the risks encountered by vehicles while driving. At the same time, climate change has also exacerbated slippery and waterlogged road surfaces, making vehicles vulnerable to loss of control or splashing, increasing the chance of traffic accidents [6].

On the other hand, climate change has an impact on the mechanical properties and performance stability of vehicles. Prolonged driving or stopping in high-temperature environments can lead to overloading of the vehicle’s cooling system and causing problems such as engine overheating. At low temperatures, the material properties of vehicle components also change, resulting in a decrease in vehicle reliability [6]. In addition, climate change can adversely affect vehicle fuel and battery systems, increasing the risk of vehicle fuel leakage and battery failure, and further threatening vehicle safety [7].

What’s more, climate change exacerbates some potential risk factors for traffic accidents. For example, glacier melt is exacerbated by a warming climate, and melting water from snow and ice on steep mountain roads creates flowing ice, making mountain roads more dangerous to drive. In addition, climate change has made smog more frequent and visibility reduced, causing great trouble to vehicle driving. The effects of large-scale smog make it difficult for drivers to see the road ahead, and the braking distance and braking sensitivity will be affected, thereby increasing the risk of traffic accidents [8] [9].

In response to the impact of climate change on vehicle safety, it is necessary to take a series of countermeasures to improve the resilience and safety of vehicles. First, rational design and improvement of road infrastructure to increase its resilience. For example, in areas prone to flooding, measures such as raising the height of the roadbed or adding water diversion facilities can be taken to reduce the impact of flooding on the road. Secondly, further development and application of vehicle technologies adapted to different climatic conditions are required. For example, vehicle components with better cooling systems and low-temperature resistant materials can be developed to meet the challenges of extreme temperatures. In addition, it is proposed to introduce intelligent transportation systems and Internet of Vehicles technologies to improve drivers’ perception of road and traffic conditions, thereby reducing the occurrence of traffic accidents.

3. The role of vehicle engineering in addressing climate change

Vehicle engineering plays an important role in combating climate change. First, by improving the fuel efficiency and emission control technology of vehicles, greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced, thereby effectively combating climate change. For example, efficient engine technology and lightweight design can reduce a vehicle’s energy consumption and carbon emissions [10]. In addition, the use of advanced emission control technologies, such as three-way catalytic converters and particle capture systems, can reduce pollutant emissions in exhaust gases and improve air quality.

Vehicle engineering can also promote the development of renewable energy and new energy vehicles, that is, reduce carbon emissions mentioned above, develop electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles, further reduce dependence on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote the use of renewable energy and the development of new energy vehicle markets [11, 12].

In the process of reducing carbon emissions and addressing climate change, vehicle engineering should also pay attention to the treatment and recycling of automobile waste. Discarded auto parts and materials can cause pollution to the environment, so a proper waste disposal and recycling system is essential. Vehicle engineering drives the dismantling of waste vehicles and the recycling of scrap, thereby reducing the waste of resources and the load on the environment [13].

Vehicle engineering plays an important role in combating climate change. Vehicle engineering contributes to reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality, and combating climate change by improving fuel efficiency and emission control technologies in vehicles, promoting the development of renewable energy and new energy vehicles, and rationalizing waste disposal and recycling [14, 15].

4. Countermeasures for the development of vehicle engineering

4.1. Developing new energy vehicles

As an important means to cope with climate change and an effective way to solve the problem of traffic emissions, new energy vehicles are gradually becoming the development direction of vehicle engineering. First of all, new energy vehicles are powered by electric energy, which has the characteristics of zero-emission, low noise, energy saving, and environmental protection compared with the combustion engine of traditional vehicles. This makes new energy vehicles play an important role in reducing exhaust pollution and improving air quality. Secondly, the use of new energy vehicles can also reduce energy consumption and reduce dependence on non-renewable resources such as oil. By adopting new energy vehicles, carbon emissions can not only be reduced but also promote the transformation of the energy structure to clean and renewable.

In order to promote the development of new energy vehicles, efforts need to be made from many aspects. First of all, the government should increase support for the research development, and production of new energy vehicles, encourage enterprises to increase investment through relevant policies and financial subsidies, promote technological innovation, and improve the performance and reliability of new energy vehicles. Second, strengthening the construction of charging infrastructure is the key to promoting the popularization of new energy vehicles. The government can build charging stations in cities, highways, and other transportation hubs to improve the coverage and power supply capacity of charging piles, and facilitate the use and charging of new energy vehicles. In addition, enterprises can be encouraged to build charging piles in residential areas, office buildings and other places through policy means to provide users with convenient charging services.

Increasing the research and development of new energy vehicle technology is also the key to the development of new energy vehicles. Scientific research institutions and enterprises can strengthen research on new energy vehicles, grasp the key technologies of new energy vehicles, improve battery energy density, extend cruising range, improve charging time and charging efficiency, and enhance the performance and competitiveness of new energy vehicles. It is also necessary to strengthen the promotion and publicity of new energy vehicles, improve the public’s awareness and acceptance of new energy vehicles, and encourage more people to buy and use new energy vehicles.

The development of new energy vehicles is one of the primary strategies to combat climate change. The government, enterprises, and scientific research institutions should work together to increase investment and strengthen cooperation to promote the innovation and development of new energy vehicle technology, further reduce the negative impact of vehicles on the climate, and achieve the goal of sustainable transportation.

4.2. Improving autonomous driving technology

By improving autonomous driving technology, the negative climate impact of vehicles can be reduced in several ways.

Improving autonomous driving technology offers a two-fold benefit. Firstly, it enhances energy efficiency by employing advanced perception systems and intelligent control algorithms, resulting in more precise vehicle operations that minimize energy waste, boost fuel efficiency, and reduce carbon emissions. Secondly, it enhances traffic flow efficiency by using real-time data analysis and intelligent traffic management to optimize vehicle scheduling and route planning, alleviating traffic congestion, reducing energy waste, and improving overall transportation efficiency, ultimately lowering time and economic costs for travelers.

In addition, improving autonomous driving technology can also improve traffic safety. Its advanced sensors and algorithms are able to perceive the surrounding traffic environment in real-time, detect potential dangers in time, and make quick decisions and responses. This highly automated driving system can avoid traffic accidents caused by human factors, reduce losses and casualties, and improve traffic safety.

Climate resilience and protection can be achieved by improving the energy efficiency of vehicles, optimizing traffic flow efficiency, and improving traffic safety. Therefore, in the development of vehicle engineering, the research and development and application of autonomous driving technology should be strengthened to actively contribute to the construction of a low-carbon, safe, and efficient transportation system.

4.3. Optimizing transportation policies

In the context of climate change, optimizing transport policies has become an important task. Through the rational and scientific formulation and implementation of transportation policies, the negative impact of vehicle engineering on climate change can be effectively reduced, and sustainable transportation development can be promoted.

In optimizing transport policies, attention should be paid to the development of public transport systems. Public transport is an effective way to solve urban traffic congestion and reduce tailpipe emissions. Governments can invest more in public transport to improve the coverage and operational efficiency of public transport lines. In addition, citizens are encouraged to choose public transportation, which can improve the attractiveness of public transportation and reduce the use of private cars by reducing the use of private cars by discounting fares and setting up dedicated lanes.

Optimizing traffic policies can improve traffic efficiency by introducing intelligent traffic management systems. The intelligent traffic management system uses advanced information technology and communication technology to monitor and regulate traffic flow in real-time. Through intelligent traffic lights, traffic monitoring equipment, and other means, the occurrence of traffic accidents can be reduced, and the traffic flow can be improved. Intelligent traffic management systems can also optimize traffic routes and parking management, reduce empty mileage and parking queue times, and improve traffic efficiency and energy utilization.

In addition, optimizing transport policies should also focus on the development of urban planning. Proper urban planning can reduce traffic demand and reduce the use of private cars. By rationally arranging residential, commercial, and industrial areas, residents can shorten the commuting distance and reduce the need for commuting transportation. In addition, the development of a convenient pedestrian and cycling road network can encourage citizens to choose non-motorized.

5. Conclusion

Climate change has a non-negligible impact on vehicle engineering, and vehicle engineering also plays an important role in combating climate change. Firstly, vehicle engineering requires considering the impact of climate change on vehicle performance during design and manufacturing. Then, vehicle engineering can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by developing renewable energy. Vehicle engineers can research more efficient battery technologies and electric motors to improve the range and performance of electric vehicles. Besides, vehicle engineering can also reduce traffic congestion and emissions by applying intelligent transportation systems.

In order to further promote the development of vehicle engineering, governments and enterprises should increase investment in related research and innovation. Governments can introduce policies and regulations to encourage investment and technological innovation in the field of vehicle engineering. Enterprises can strengthen cooperation with scientific research institutions and universities to jointly carry out research projects, cultivate talents, and promote the development of vehicle engineering.

In summary, by strengthening technological innovation, developing renewable energy technology , and applying intelligent transportation systems, the challenges brought by climate change can be addressed effectively, and the sustainable development of vehicle engineering can be promoted.