HONDA'S FUEL CELL VEHICLE CONCEPTS

Honda have introduced the FCX-V1 and FCX-V2� two electric vehicle prototypes powered by fuel cells, the much-anticipated possible next-generation power plants for cars.

The FCX-V1 uses hydrogen fuel and is equipped with a fuel cell stack manufactured by Ballard Power Systems, Inc., which employs a hydrogen occlusion alloy for fuel storage.

The FCX-V2 employs a methanol-fueled fuel cell stack manufactured by Honda itself, incorporating a Honda-developed reformer for extracting hydrogen.

Both of these prototypes feature the Honda EV Plus body, specially designed for electric vehicles, as well as Honda's own small yet highly efficient drive motor and control system.

In view of possible future changes in the fuel infrastructure and to accumulate engineering expertise, Honda has been striving to develop fuel cell vehicles, and is planning to make one commercially available by the year 2003.

Specifications

FCX-V1
• Motor: permanent magnet AC synchronised motor (Honda)
• Power output 49kW
• Fuel cell stack: solid polymer PEFC (Proton Exchange Fuel Cell) (manufactured by Ballard Power Systems Inc.)
• Power output 60kW
• Fuel: pure hydrogen
• Storage system: hydrogen occlusion tank (La-Ni5)

FCX-V2
• Motor: permanent magnet AC synchronised motor (Honda)
• Power output 49kW
• Fuel cell stack: solid polymer PEFC (Proton Exchange Fuel Cell) (Honda)
• Power output 60kW
• Fuel: methanol
• Reforming system: auto-thermal system

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