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Fuel cell electric powertrains.
Evolving with Intention.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) are a type of electric vehicle that generate their own electricity using oxygen and hydrogen. Hyundai has been researching and developing fuel cell technology for over 25 years and aims to lead in this field, contributing to the advancement of a more sustainable automotive industry.
How it works.
A fuel cell, also known as a tertiary battery, is a device that converts chemical potential energy stored in hydrogen molecules into electrical energy. This reaction requires oxygen and generates electricity to power the motor, which propels the wheels. The system operates with efficiency, and its byproducts are water and heat.
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The heart of an FCEV.
The fuel cell system contains 4 elements: A fuel cell stack, a fuel processing system, an air processing system, and a thermal management system. -
1. The fuel cell stack.
A set of fuel cells is referred to as a fuel cell stack. The fuel cell is a compact device that is made up of two parts separated by a thin layer called a proton-exchange membrane (PEM). This membrane is coated with materials that help the chemical reaction happen.
How it works:- Hydrogen and oxygen flow from one side to the other side through microscopic gas routes.
- A catalyst breaks the hydrogen into protons (positively charged particles) and electrons (negatively charged particles).
- The protons pass through the membrane (PEM), while the electrons are directed through an external circuit. This process generates electricity.
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2. The fuel processing system.
Here, hydrogen is safely transferred from the high-pressure hydrogen tanks to the low-pressure fuel cell stack. -
3. The air processing system.
The oxygen necessary to react with the hydrogen is drawn from the atmosphere. To keep the fuel cell stack free from pollutants, the indrawn air passes through a purification system that cleans it of any particulates. -
4. The thermal management system.
High heat would curb the optimal performance and lifespan of the fuel cell stack. The thermal management system prevents the electrolyte membrane from being exposed to such high temperatures.
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Structure of tanks.
The hydrogen tanks are designed to be compact to maximise the vehicle's interior space. They can sustain extremely low temperatures to maximise onboard fuel storage.
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Converting energy.
The motor transforms the electricity produced by the fuel cell stacks into kinetic energy. A high-voltage battery enhances the powertrain, providing additional power for enhanced acceleration. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), similar to hybrid and battery electric cars, also utilise a regenerative braking system. This system returns electricity to the high-voltage battery when the driver applies the brakes, thereby improving fuel economy.
Hydrogen Refuelling Public Network.
Refuelling with hydrogen is quite similar to refuelling with petrol or diesel. Generally, it takes about five minutes for a passenger car, although the exact time can vary depending on the size of the tanks. Public refuelling infrastructure in the UK is currently limited. New refuelling stations and clusters are expected to be developed over the next five years.
