Category: Fuel Cell

May 16

Intelligent Energy’s 157kW fuel cell powers SUV

UK-based Intelligent Energy’s (IE) smaller, more powerful hydrogen fuel cell suitable for passenger cars has powered an SUV provided by Changan Automobile.

The 157kW fuel cell system, dubbed the IE-DRIVE™, is understood to have more gross electrical power than any other passenger car single stack application currently available.

Under full-scale, high-volume manufacturing conditions, IE has predicted the DRIVE will cost around $125 per kW by the end of the decade. It was reported that fuel cells went to market at around $1,500 per kw in 2023.

“With 25% of passenger cars expected to have hydrogen fuel cell powertrains, this clean technology represents the future,” claimed David Woolhouse, IE’s Chief Executive.

“As an independent and IATF-compliant tier 1 supplier business, I’m proud we have developed a breakthrough solution that can open up the market for passenger car manufacturers that need to package a more powerful system into their vehicles.”

In addition, the DRIVE features a heat exchanger that’s up to 30% smaller than its competitors, a novel direct water injection system – removing the need for a humidifier and is designed to meet the low bonnet requirements of a passenger car.

The company first unveiled the system last September (2023), with the aim of meeting performance and space constraints of a passenger vehicle. The system development was supported by the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC).

Jan 18

Honda Unveils Ambitious 2024 EV Lineup: Launching Civic Hybrid, Prologue, and Fuel Cell CR-V

Honda Accelerates into the EV Market with Diverse 2024 Lineup

Honda is set to make a significant entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market in 2024, catching up to competitors like Ford and Toyota. The lineup includes the Honda Prologue SUV and the Acura ZDX SUV, both battery-powered, along with a groundbreaking fuel cell version of the popular CR-V. Additionally, Honda will introduce a hybrid version of the Civic, anticipating that it will constitute 40% of all Civic sales following its release this summer.

Strategic Launch and Innovative Features

The Honda Prologue EV, boasting a 300-mile range with an Ultium battery developed by General Motors, will initially be available in states known for their EV-friendly policies, such as California, Texas, and Florida. This strategic launch approach aims to test the waters in warmer climates before a broader national rollout. Honda is also enhancing buyer incentives, offering significant charging credits and complimentary home charger installations to entice early adopters.

2024 Acura ZDX online reservations (Credit: Acura)

Acura Steps into the EV Arena; Honda Expands into Fuel Cell Technology

Simultaneously, Acura is preparing to market its first fully electric model, the ZDX SUV, with a starting price around $60,000 and a promising range of up to 325 miles. Unique to the industry, Acura will adopt a fully online sales model starting in February, mirroring the approach of EV pioneers like Tesla and Rivian. In a pioneering move, Honda is also launching the CR-V as a hybrid fuel cell vehicle, combining plug-in and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, a first in North America, offering versatility in fueling options for a wider adoption potential.

2024 Honda Civic Hybrid (Credit: Honda)

These initiatives underscore Honda’s commitment to electrification and innovation, setting a strong foundation for its future in the EV market. The introduction of diverse powertrain technologies in its lineup not only caters to current market trends but also positions Honda as a forward-thinking automaker ready to lead in the evolving automotive landscape.