Today, mobility is caught in a massive wave of transformation. When it comes to travel, Americans have greater options and information than ever before. Smart phones and widespread internet give consumers near instant access to live traffic data, up-to-date transit schedules, and rides available through on-demand mobility services. At the same time, breakthroughs in vehicle technologies, sensors, and computing are enabling greater connectivity and the realization of automated, self-driving vehicles.

While technologies are multiplying for consumers, few consider the systematic effects they are having on mobility. This, according to U.S. Department of Energy’s Michael Berube, is where the DOE and Argonne National Laboratory are delivering value to Americans.

Berube, the acting deputy assistant secretary for transportation in DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, points to Argonne’s work in transportation system modeling and deep battery research, as examples. While visiting the laboratory, Berube spoke about the critical insights Argonne and other national laboratories are providing about the current and future state of mobility and the benefits to American consumers.