About 19 of the total projects will improve the key plug-in electric vehicle components by developing beyond lithium ion technologies and wide bandgap semiconductors.
The projects will enhance lightweight materials research and develop advanced climate control technologies.
The remaining 12 projects will focus on dual-fuel / bi-fuel technologies, powertrains, fuel, tires and auxiliary systems to improve energy efficiency.
US DOE secretary Ernest Moniz said: "Investments in the next generation of vehicle technologies will both strengthen our economy and lead to a more fuel efficient, clean energy future."
"Improving vehicle efficiency is instrumental to establishing a 21st century transportation sector that creates jobs as well as protects future generations from harmful carbon emissions."
The lithium ion technology based projects are also supported with an additional $3.7m in co-funding provided by the Department of the Army via the Advanced Vehicle Power Technology Alliance with the DOE.
US Army Tank automotive research, development and engineering center director Paul Rogers said: "Partnering with the Energy Department, we are accelerating the development and deployment of cutting-edge technologies that will strengthen our military, economy, and energy security."
Launched in 2012, the EV Everywhere Grand Challenge allows the US automotive industry to produce affordable and convenient plug-in electric vehicles by 2022.
Image: US Department of Energy secretary Ernest Moniz. Photo: courtesy of the US Department of Energy.
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