What is a fuel cell vehicle?
A fuel cell vehicle (FCV) is a car powered by electricity generated by an onboard fuel cell unit. The fuel used in the onboard fuel cell unit is high-purity hydrogen or reformed hydrogen-containing fuel gas. The difference in power between an FCV and a conventional electric vehicle lies in the fact that the FCV's electricity comes from the onboard fuel cell unit, while the electric vehicle's electricity comes from a battery charged by the power grid. Therefore, the key component of an FCV is the fuel cell.
Features of fuel cell vehicles
Compared to traditional automobiles, fuel cell vehicles differ from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles in terms of structure and power transmission, posing new requirements for the overall vehicle design. The engine-transmission powertrain of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles is absent in fuel cell vehicles; instead, a fuel cell reactor, battery, hydrogen tank, electric motor, and DC/DC converter are used. The braking system and suspension also change accordingly. Therefore, based on the unique characteristics of fuel cell vehicles, corresponding changes and improvements should be made during the design process. Fuel cell vehicles have the following advantages:
1. Zero emissions or near-zero emissions.
2. Reduced water pollution caused by oil leaks.
3. It reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
4. Improved fuel economy.
5. Improved engine combustion efficiency.
6. Smooth operation and no noise.
Working principle of fuel cell vehicles
The working principle of a fuel cell vehicle is that hydrogen, as fuel, undergoes an oxidation-reduction chemical reaction with oxygen in the atmosphere in the fuel cell installed in the vehicle, generating electrical energy to drive the electric motor. The electric motor drives the mechanical transmission structure in the vehicle, which in turn drives the vehicle's front (or rear) axle and other walking mechanical structures, thus propelling the electric vehicle forward.
