Mercedes-Benz is in the middle of creating the F-Cell concept – which will become a hydrogen fuel cell based vehicle. Mercedes has been testing this and other fuel cell cars around Europe and the United States. They have all the luxury of a Mercedes vehicle while also being environmentally friendly with absolutely zero emissions.
In the F cell, the whole cell fuel system is built into the floor of the car. The 65KW electric motor and the fuel cell technology ensure that the car can go up to speeds of 140 km/hour, not to mention an acceleration speed of 100 km/hour. The cruising range is an impressive 150 km and the car consumes hydrogen that is equal to 4.2 liters of diesel for every 100 km. What is in the concept stage is an F cell technology car that is going to be even more powerful – the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. The car has a range of 250 miles and it has a 100 KW motor.
The improvement in the range was mainly because of the greater space that the B-Class has for holding tanks that are filled with compressed hydrogen, the higher storage pressure and the advances that have been made in the fuel cell technology. Although, as you can see, both of these cars have put to use the concept of sandwich design which is aimed at being able to maximize the room for both of the passengers as well as the propulsion components. Ballard Power Systems designed the PEMFC or proton exchange membrane fuel cell.
The car was mainly developed to be a family car which is perhaps why there is so much emphasis on space. This was very easy to achieve with the fuel cell unit being sandwiched into the underbody of the car. As with all the other hybrid vehicles, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class too uses batteries to start the car and the hydrogen power to enhance the acceleration of the electric motors. The fuel cell recharges the batteries.
What is wonderful is the silent operation – it’s not just a quiet but a smooth ride as well. And it drives just like a regular vehicle. When it will hit the roads is anyone’s guess but the fact that the Mercedes has not only gone green but green and powerful will make it the car of choice for many of those who swear by this brand.
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