At the 2026 Annual Merit Review (AMR) hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s
Transportation Technologies Office, Sandia National Laboratories showcased cuttingedge
research that is shaping the future of transportation. Held in Arlington, Virginia, the event
brought together experts from national laboratories, industry, academia, and government to
evaluate projects advancing DOE’s mission.
Sandia’s participation highlighted a diverse portfolio of innovations, from semiconductor
advancements to combustion science and autonomous vehicle technologies. One standout area
was the development of models for next-generation silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs and ultrawide
bandgap (UWBG) AlGaN semiconductors. These models promise to enhance power
electronics efficiency, which is critical for electric and hybrid vehicles, enabling longer ranges
and reduced energy losses. Sandia also presented advances in magnetic component modeling
for lighter, more efficient electric motors and powertrain components, further supporting
improvements in vehicle electrification technologies.
Additionally, Sandia presenters discussed key challenges in hydrogen internal combustion
engines (H2ICEs), focusing on overcoming barriers such as fuel-air mixing, pre-ignition, and
ultra-lean operation. This research is pivotal for unlocking hydrogen’s potential as a domestically
produced alternative fuel. Sandia researchers also shared studies on alcohol combustion in
compression ignition (CI) engines, providing insight into mixing, ignition, and pollutant
emissions. Complementing this work, Sandia highlighted research on mixing-controlled
compression-ignition combustion using domestically produced alternative fuels to better
understand and control pollutant emissions.
Sandia also highlighted contributions to secure and efficient vehicle technologies through its
cybersecurity and autonomous systems research. This included work in public key infrastructure
(PKI) for vehicle charging systems, helping address cybersecurity needs associated with
connected and electrified transportation. In addition, Sandia has developed simulation
frameworks to evaluate autonomous vehicle on-board computing systems for energy efficiency,
performance, and reliability, supporting the advancement of safer and more capable automated
transportation technologies.
Through these contributions, Sandia researchers demonstrated technical excellence and
reinforced the laboratory’s role as a key partner in advancing DOE’s vision for a more efficient,
secure, and resilient transportation future.
July 13, 2026