Fuel cell technology is the process of transforming hydrogen to electricity providing power to the electric drive motor. The process is fairly efficient as well as very environmentally friendly producing only water vapor from the exhaust as a bi-product.
Here are some characteristics and specifications now known about the 2015 Toyota FCV.
- Driving range of at least 500 km before refueling (300 miles)
- Cost of around $30 US to refuel for the 300 mile range
- Refueling of hydrogen should take approximately three minutes
- Seats four occupants
- Length 4870mm, Width 1810mm, Height 1535mm, Wheelbase 2780mm
- Power output peaks at more than 100 kW
- 0-60mph (100km) in around 10 seconds
Here is a simplified explanation of how Toyota's fuel cell system works:
Picture from Toyota global websiteThe main issue that has perplexed vehicle manufacturers was the instability and flammability (explosiveness) of the hydrogen fuel. Toyota has designed high pressure hydrogen tanks featuring a polyamide resin liner on the inside with carbon fiber exterior.
If you would like to read more on the technology aspect click this link to Toyota: http://www.toyota-global.com/innovation/environmental_technology/technology_file/fuel_cell_hybrid.html
Toyota's multimedia page on the FCV with video and pictures:
http://www.toyota.com/fuelcell/
http://www.toyota-global.com/innovation/environmental_technology/fuelcell_vehicle/
All FCV photos from Toyota.com
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