To help extend the range of hybrid cars, Volvo is currently developing a new hydrogen fuel cell that will hopefully increase an electric car’s operating range by up to 155 miles or 250km.
The new fuel cells consist of a design with a reformer that breaks down a liquid fuel (petrol) and then uses this to create hydrogen gas that it then converts into energy to power the car.
The fuel cell would generate electricity without any emissions of carbon oxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and particles. The only end products are electricity, water, and a small amount of carbon dioxide.
Volvo Cars President and CEO Stefan Jacoby said:
“This is an exciting expansion of our focus on electrification. Battery cost and size mean that all-electric cars still have a relatively limited operating range. Fuel cells may be one way of extending the distance these cars can cover before they need to be recharged. What is more, the project gives us increased knowledge about fuel cells and hydrogen gas,”
The next stage is to create two working prototype cars based on the C30 DRIVe Electric ready for testing in 2012.
Advantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Hydrogen fuel cells offer several advantages over traditional battery-powered electric vehicles. One of the most significant benefits is the reduction in refueling time. While electric cars can take several hours to recharge, hydrogen fuel cells can be refueled in just a few minutes, similar to conventional gasoline vehicles. This makes them more convenient for long-distance travel.
Additionally, hydrogen fuel cells have a higher energy density compared to batteries. This means they can store more energy in a smaller space, which is crucial for extending the range of electric vehicles. The only byproducts of hydrogen fuel cells are water and a small amount of carbon dioxide, making them an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite their advantages, hydrogen fuel cells face several challenges that need to be addressed before they can become mainstream. One of the primary challenges is the production and storage of hydrogen. Currently, most hydrogen is produced from natural gas, which is not entirely sustainable. However, research is ongoing to develop more sustainable methods of hydrogen production, such as electrolysis using renewable energy sources.
Another challenge is the lack of infrastructure for hydrogen refueling stations. While there are some hydrogen refueling stations in certain parts of the world, they are not as widespread as gasoline stations or electric vehicle charging stations. Governments and private companies need to invest in building more hydrogen refueling stations to make hydrogen fuel cell vehicles a viable option for consumers.
Volvo’s initiative to develop hydrogen fuel cells is a step in the right direction. By creating working prototypes and testing them, Volvo can gather valuable data and insights that can help overcome these challenges. If successful, hydrogen fuel cells could play a significant role in the future of sustainable transportation.
In conclusion, Volvo’s development of hydrogen fuel cells represents a promising advancement in the quest for sustainable and efficient transportation. By addressing the limitations of current battery technology, hydrogen fuel cells have the potential to significantly extend the range of electric vehicles and reduce refueling times. While there are challenges to overcome, the future prospects of hydrogen fuel cells are bright, and continued research and development in this area could lead to a cleaner and more sustainable automotive industry.
Via Gizmag
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