Nanomaterials may have a key role since they can be applied in several vehicle components (such as H-2 storage, vehicle structure, batteries), but there is the concern that some nanomaterials may lead to relevant environmental impacts. This paper addresses a revision of the environmental impacts of different types of nanomaterials applied to alternative vehicles in order to reduce energy use (and consequently the global greenhouse gases emissions). A literature review is performed in order to analyze the recent improvements in nanomaterials applied to alternative vehicles. This revision will be based on life cycle assessment and risk analysis. Copyright (C) 2015, Hydrogen Energy Publications, LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.