Exploring the Future of Cars: British Science Week 2025 – Change and Adapt

In this blog for British Science Week 2025, we explore how the theme “Change and Adapt” connects to the transition away from petrol and diesel cars. Aimed at both students and teachers, this blog includes engaging insights and suggested follow-on activities.

Currently, petrol and diesel engines dominate our roads, but a major shift is underway. The UK plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, driven by concerns over climate change, carbon emissions, limited fossil fuel resources, and health impacts.

Thanks to scientific research and engineering advancements, alternative technologies are emerging to replace traditional fuel-based vehicles. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most promising future car technologies and how they are shaping a more sustainable world.

Relevance to OCR Qualifications

This topic provides a valuable mini-project opportunity for British Science Week 2025, making it an engaging resource for both teachers and students. It also directly connects to key topics in various OCR qualifications:

• GCSE Gateway Combined Science: Links to the “Global Challenges” topics in B6, C6, and P6, helping students explore real-world applications.
• GCSE Twenty First Century Combined Science: Relevant to C1 (Air and Water) and P2 (Sustainable Energy), extending classroom discussions.
• Cambridge Advanced National (AAQ) in Applied Science: Set for first teaching in September 2025, this qualification covers the advantages and disadvantages of using alkanes and alcohols as fuels in Topic 3.3 (Organic Chemistry) within Unit F180 Fundamentals of Science.
• A-Level Chemistry A & B (Salters): Connects with Fuel Cells (Topic 5.2.3) and Fuels for the Future (Topic DF).
• A-Level Biology & Physics: Broader links to topics related to energy, sustainability, and environmental impact.

Biofuels: A Renewable Alternative for Future Transport

Biofuels are a renewable energy source made from organic materials. One of the most common types, bioethanol, has been widely used in Brazil for years and is now blended into UK fuels—with E10 petrol (10% bioethanol) available at most fuel stations. Other biofuels include biodiesel (derived from plant or animal oils) and biogas (produced from organic waste).

Are Biofuels Truly Sustainable?

While biofuels are often considered carbon-neutral, they come with challenges:

• Vehicle Compatibility: Not all cars, especially classic cars, can run on biofuels.
• Environmental Impact: Large-scale crop production for biofuels can harm ecosystems.
• Food Supply Concerns: Using farmland for bioethanol may affect food production and pricing.
• Carbon Footprint: The processing and transportation of biofuels may still contribute to emissions.

As the UK transitions to greener energy, biofuels play a role in reducing carbon emissions, but their long-term sustainability depends on technological advancements and responsible production methods.

Synthetic Fuels: The Future of Sustainable Racing and Road Cars

Formula 1 is set to switch to 100% advanced sustainable fuel by 2026, while Formula 2 and Formula 3 already use 55% sustainable fuel. Unlike biofuels, synthetic fuels are not derived from crops or farmland. Instead, they can be produced from agricultural waste, municipal waste, forestry waste, and even carbon captured from algae or directly from the air.

Challenges in Scaling Synthetic Fuels

While synthetic fuels offer a promising low-carbon alternative, several challenges remain:

• Air Pollution: Emissions from synthetic fuels can still impact air quality and public health, similar to petrol and diesel.
• Mass Production: Expanding from small-scale racing applications to widespread road car use requires technological advancements and cost reductions.

Electric Cars: The Leading Alternative to Petrol and Diesel

Electric cars have rapidly become the most popular alternative to petrol and diesel vehicles. While electric cars are not a new invention, advancements in battery technology have significantly improved their range and charging speed.

By the end of 2024, the UK had over 73,000 public charging points, though availability varies by region. Countries like Norway lead the way, with electric cars dominating new car sales, largely due to government incentives and tax policies.

Benefits of Electric Cars

• Lower Carbon Footprint (after production) when powered by sustainable energy.
• Better Driving Experience with instant torque and smooth acceleration.
• Lower Maintenance Costs due to fewer moving parts.

Challenges Slowing Market Growth

Despite their advantages, several barriers remain:

• Charging Time – Long recharging times, especially on long trips.
• High Upfront Cost – Expensive vehicles and home charging station installation.
• Battery Production Impact – Environmental concerns around mining and transportation.
• Sustainable Energy Supply – The need for more renewable electricity generation.
• Limited Charging Access – Challenges for those without a driveway.

As technology improves and infrastructure expands, electric cars are set to play a crucial role in the future of sustainable transport.

Hydrogen Fuel: A Promising Alternative for Zero-Emission Vehicles

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) are gaining traction in the UK, though their numbers remain limited. Unlike combustion engines, hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity to power an electric motor, offering a more efficient and cleaner alternative. This means hydrogen cars retain the advantages of electric motors while allowing for faster refueling at dedicated stations.

Key Benefits of Hydrogen Fuel Cells

• Zero Harmful Emissions – The only byproduct is water vapor, making it a clean energy solution.
• Quick Refueling – Similar to petrol or diesel, refueling takes just a few minutes (if hydrogen stations are available).
• Retains Electric Motor Advantages – Delivers smooth acceleration, instant torque, and quiet operation.

Challenges Facing Hydrogen Adoption

While hydrogen fuel offers exciting potential, several barriers remain:

• Infrastructure Limitations – Most petrol stations need modifications to safely supply hydrogen.
• Green Hydrogen Production – More renewable hydrogen is needed to reduce the carbon footprint of production.
• High Vehicle Costs – Hydrogen cars are currently more expensive than EVs and petrol cars, though prices may drop over time.
• Sustainable Hydrogen Sources – Research into green algae and cyanobacteria has improved microbial hydrogen production, but large-scale adoption may compete with farmland use.

Is There a Single Solution? The Future of Sustainable Transport

The future of sustainable transport is unlikely to rely on just one solution. Instead, a mix of electric cars, hydrogen fuel, biofuels, and synthetic fuels may be adopted in different ways across countries and individuals.

Governments will also need to find new ways to replace lost fuel tax revenue from petrol and diesel bans, adding another layer of complexity. Beyond fuel, other challenges must be addressed, including:

• Brake Dust Pollution – Wear and tear from brake pads can impact air quality and public health.
• Traffic Congestion – Expanding and improving public transport could help reduce road traffic.

How Fast Can Change Happen?

History shows that transportation can evolve rapidly. In 1900, there were just 800 cars in the UK—by 1930, over a million. Today, that number has soared to over 41 million!

With ongoing scientific advancements and engineering innovation, the next generation of scientists, engineers, and policymakers will play a crucial role in shaping a greener, more efficient future for global transport.

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Meet Mike – OCR Subject Advisor for A Level Physics

Mike joined OCR in January 2024 as a Subject Advisor for A Level Physics. He holds an MA in Education from the University of Birmingham (2014) and brings over 15 years of teaching experience.

Before joining OCR, Mike held various leadership roles, including:

• Acting Assistant Head
• Head of Science
• Physics Network Lead for a multi-academy trust
• STEM Learning Facilitator
• Specialist Leader in Education (SLE) for Science

Passionate about inclusion in education, environmental sustainability, and STEM outreach, Mike is dedicated to supporting teachers and students in delivering high-quality physics education..

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