Jaguar Land Rover is growing a hydrogen gas cell automobile based mostly on the brand new Defender SUV and plans to start testing the prototype subsequent yr.
The prototype program, often known as Project Zeus, is a part of JLR’s bigger intention to solely produce zero-tailpipe emissions autos by 20236. JLR has additionally made a dedication to have zero carbon emissions throughout its provide chain, merchandise and operations by 2039.
Project Zeus is partially funded by the UK government-backed Advanced Propulsion Center. The automaker has additionally tapped AVL, Delta Motorsport, Marelli Automotive Systems and the UK Battery Industrialization Center to assist develop the prototype. The testing program is designed to assist engineers perceive how a hydrogen powertrain may be developed that may meet the efficiency and functionality (like towing and off roading) requirements that Land Rover prospects count on.
Fuel cells mix hydrogen and oxygen to provide electrical energy with out combustion. The electrical energy generated from hydrogen is used to energy an electrical motor. Some automakers, researchers and policymakers have advocated for the know-how as a result of hydrogen-powered FCEVs may be refueled shortly, have a high-energy density and don’t lose as a lot vary in chilly temperatures. The mixture means EVs that may journey longer distances.
Few gas cell EVs, in any other case often known as FCEVs, are available on the market at this time partially due to an absence of refueling stations. The Toyota Mirai is one instance.
Data from the International Energy Agency and up to date commitments by automakers means that is likely to be altering. Last month, BMW Chairman Oliver Zipse mentioned the automaker plans to provide a small variety of hydrogen fuel-cell powered X5 SUVs subsequent yr.
The variety of FCEVs on the earth practically doubled to 25,210 models in 2019 from the earlier yr, the newest knowledge from the IEA reveals. The United States has been the chief in gross sales, though there was a dip in 2019, adopted by China, Japan and Korea.
Japan has been a pacesetter on the infrastructure finish because it goals to have 200,000 FCEVs on the highway by 2025. The nation had put in 113 stations as of 2019, practically twice as many because the United States.
“We know hydrogen has a role to play in the future powertrain mix across the whole transport industry, and alongside battery electric vehicles, it offers another zero tailpipe emission solution for the specific capabilities and requirements of Jaguar Land Rover’s world class line-up of vehicles,” Ralph Clague, the pinnacle of hydrogen and gas cells for Jaguar Land Rover mentioned in an announcement.
