Ford's H2RV: An Industry First HEV Propelled with a H2 Fueled Engine - A Fuel Efficient and Clean Solution for Sustainable Mobility

Ford's H²RV is a Hydrogen engine propelled Hybrid Electric concept Vehicle that was unveiled and driven at Ford's Centennial Show in June 2003. This vehicle is an industry first by an OEM that demonstrates the concept and the marriage of a HEV powertrain with a supercharged Hydrogen ICE that propels the vehicle. Just as Model T was the car of the 20^th century, Model U is the vehicle for the 21^st century.

The powertrain utilizes compressed gaseous hydrogen as fuel, a supercharged 2.3L internal combustion engine, a 25 kW traction motor drive, the electric converterless transmission, regenerative braking, an advanced lithium ion battery, electric power assist steering, electronic throttle and Vehicle System Controller (VSC). The vehicle could deliver a projected fuel economy of 45 mpg and near zero emissions without compromise to performance. Active and passive venting in the vehicle are provided to vent any hydrogen that may tend to leak and accumulate in different regions of the vehicle. The coexistence of hydrogen and high voltage in the vehicle presents unique challenges in terms of vehicle package and safety systems.

The paper presents an overview of this concept vehicle and highlights some of the unique features of this energy saving clean environment solution.