UPSC Prelims 2025 · Question 1 of 100

UPSC Prelims 2025 question on Alternative Powertrain Vehicles

Consider the following types of vehicles:

I. Full battery electric vehicles

II. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles

III. Fuel cell-electric hybrid vehicles

How many of the above are considered as alternative powertrain vehicles?

  1. Only one
  2. Only two
  3. All the three
  4. None
Show answer

Answer: C. All the three

Verdict

All three types are alternative powertrain vehicles → Option (c).

Analysis

A powertrain is the system in a vehicle that generates power and delivers it to the wheels. Alternative powertrain vehicles use non-conventional propulsion systems compared to traditional internal combustion engines (ICE).

I. Full battery electric vehicles (BEVs) – CORRECT: These are powered entirely by electricity stored in batteries and use non-ICE systems.

II. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) – CORRECT: Use hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity to power electric motors. Hence it has an alternative powertrain.

III. Fuel cell-electric hybrid vehicles – CORRECT: Combine a fuel cell and a battery or other electric storage system. Thus it is an alternative powertrain.

More questions on Miscellaneous Science and Technology

All 20 questions on Miscellaneous Science and Technology →

← Full 2025 question paper · All Science and Technology questions