Honda unveils next-generation FCX fuel cell concept vehicle

Honda's new FCX fuel cell concept vehicle, unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, is a stylish sedan featuring a redesigned fuel cell system that delivers more power and increased range in less space than the current FCX 2005 model on the road, and a low-floor design that maximizes cabin space.

Honda's new fuel cell stack is compact enough to fit neatly into the center tunnel but robust enough to deliver 100kW of power. It takes advantage of gravity to discharge water formed during electricity generation. This improves cold-weather startup, which had been a key obstacle to the commercialization of fuel cell vehicles. The FCX-V Concept drive train powers all four wheels, which combined with the low-center-of-gravity platform delivers torquey performance and agile handling.

To increase the driving range, Honda engineers chose not to increase storage tank pressure, but to use a newly-developed hydrogen absorption material, with which the tanks supply enough hydrogen to extend the cruising range to 560 kilometers (350 miles) - exceeding the DOE's range target for 2010. By contrast, the current FCX 2005 model offers a range of 190 miles.

Honda also unveiled its current model of the Home Energy Station (HES), a home cogeneration and fueling system that uses natural gas to supply electricity and heat in addition to hydrogen fuel for vehicles. In addition to reducing carbon dioxide emissions by some 40%, the HES system is expected to lower by 50% the total running cost of household electricity, gas and vehicle fuel.

(2005-10-20 13:22:46 SGT) [Tech] Permalink

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