March 17, 2021—The U.S. Department of Energy announced last Thursday that it awarded $18 million across four projects aimed at reducing emissions and improving vehicle technology. 

Transportation Today reports the funding is part of the second phase of its Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) Next Generation Energy Technologies for Connected and Automated On-Road Vehicles (NEXTCAR) program, which is aimed at bringing connected and automated systems with ICE engines and all-electric vehicles.

“The same nifty features that are making cars easier to drive can also make them way more efficient, use less gas, and save drivers money at the pump,” said Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm, as reported by Transportation Today. “These technologies are a win-win for drivers, and they’re also going to lead to more jobs, a cleaner transportation sector, and rapid progress towards our carbon-free future.”