A recent report from the U.K. Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy-sponsored Committee Source: ULEMCoSource: ULEMCoon Climate Change on the future role of hydrogen in a low carbon economy stressed that hydrogen fuel cell vehicles could play an important role in powering heavy-duty as well as lighter vehicles. Greater emphasis on the development and adoption of hydrogen-ready technologies is advocated.

In line with proposed policies promoting the transition to a low-carbon economy, ULEMCo and partner Revolve Technologies have demonstrated thermal efficiencies of 45% in engine control strategies for a 100% hydrogen-fueled engine. The system was demonstrated for a Mega Low Emissions Volvo FH16 heavy-duty truck converted to run on hydrogen. Equipped with a 100% hydrogen engine, the vehicle produces negligible nitrogen oxides emissions. The system has delivered 60 kW at a mean effective pressure of 8 Bar, and stable operation at air/fuel ratios in excess of 300:1.

To contact the author of this article, email shimmelstein@globalspec.com