DaimlerChrysler Delivers Two More Fuel-Cell Cars
08 September 2005
DaimlerChrysler is delivering two F-Cell fuel cell vehicles to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) in California. This brings the total of F-Cells deployed in California and Michigan to 17.
The SMUD F-Cells are part of the 100+ fuel cell vehicle fleet DaimlerChrysler has put into service around the world. The data collected through vehicle operation will contribute to the DOE Hydrogen Learning Demonstration Project.
The F-Cell fuel cell system is housed in the floor of the vehicle, leaving full use of the passenger and cargo spaces. The car has a range of approximately 100 miles and a top speed of 85 mph. The electric motor develops 88 hp (65 kW), enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 14 seconds. The stack is developed by DaimlerChrysler’s partner, Ballard Power Systems.
Through the DOE Controlled Hydrogen Fleet and Infrastructure Demonstration and Validation Project, DaimlerChrysler will place more fuel cell vehicles in the hands of customers who will provide valuable feedback about performance under different conditions.
BP is the energy partner of DaimlerChrysler in the project. BP recently opened a hydrogen refueling station in Southfield, Michigan, with DTE Energy Company. Another station was opened in a cooperative effort between BP and Praxair at the Los Angeles International Airport.
Wouldn't lithium batteries provide the same or better range and performance at lower cost?
Posted by: tom | 08 September 2005 at 04:29 PM
These are test systems and as such arnt designed with long range in mind.
Posted by: wintermane | 09 September 2005 at 12:45 PM