Nissan Motor Co is researching and developing a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)-powered system that runs on bio-ethanol electric power. The new system, said to be a world first for automotive use, features an e-bio fuel cell with an SOFC power generator. SOFC is a fuel cell utilizing the reaction of multiple fuels, including ethanol and natural gas, with oxygen to produce electricity with high efficiency.
The e-bio fuel cell generates electricity through the SOFC (power generator) using bio-ethanol stored in the vehicle. The e-bio fuel cell utilizes hydrogen transformed from fuel via a reformer and atmospheric oxygen, with the subsequent electrochemical reaction producing electricity to power the vehicle.
Unlike conventional systems, e-bio fuel cell features SOFC as its power source, affording greater power efficiency to give the vehicle cruising ranges similar to gasoline-powered cars (more than 600km). In addition, the e-bio fuel cell car’s distinct electric-drive features – including silent drive, linear start-up and brisk acceleration – allow users to enjoy the comfort of a pure electric vehicle.
June 16, 2016
