Petroleum Dependency: The Case to Replace the Internal Combustion Engine

: In 1876, Dr. Nikolaus Otto invented the internal combustion engine, a revolutionary development providing a lasting impact on all aspects of socio-economic considerations. Yet, it is an inefficient mechanical invention not advancing in 150 years. The reciprocal action of the engine requires two forms of fossil fuel: oil for lubrication and gas for force. This requirement is problematic since the U.S. transportation sector accounts for the predominance of the nearly 19 million barrels of oil consumed per day. Clearly, the inextricable link between the internal combustion engine and oil leads to an inevitable energy security problem. This concern has led President Obama to call for a promotion of alternative energy fuels. This paper advocates supporting the President s strategy by advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology by the U.S. Department of Defense to replace the internal combustion engine. Building the case, this paper highlights the American oil dependency and the perpetual problem the internal combustion engine creates, compares viable alternative engines and recommends a suitable replacement. Finally, the paper proves the Department of Defense must development capabilities to implement fuel cell technology past any status quo scenario. The fuel cell is an established solution as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration gravitated to this power source starting in the late 1950 s. However, implementation will require Department of Defense to take the initiative, since it is counterintuitive to expect the auto industry or petroleum corporations to interrupt their multibillion dollar a year business. A proper phase-in implementation of hydrogen technology can save lives and money as well as provide a template for a national application and economic security to shift away from its dependence on the internal combustion engine.