The Ultimate Challenge for Hydrogen Fuel Cells

The hydrogen fuel cell could be one of the most highly developed and rigorously tested automotive technologies never to reach mainstream production. Yet, despite this, it remains an unfulfilled promise. However, this may change with the FIA Extreme H World Cup, a new off-road motorsport championship that aims to demonstrate the capabilities of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

The FIA Extreme H World Cup

The FIA Extreme H World Cup is a new off-road motorsport championship that will kick off later this year. The championship features Pioneer 25 cars powered by hydrogen fuel cells consuming sustainably produced hydrogen. The cars also have on-site activities that are powered by stationary fuel cells, showcasing the versatility of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

• The Pioneer 25 cars are based on Extreme E electric off-road racers, with a modified electric drivetrain and a 75kW hydrogen fuel cell system.
• The system is fueled by 2kg of compressed hydrogen gas stored at 700 bar in two Toyota Mirai tanks.
• The cars have a 325kW, 36kWh battery acting as a buffer between the fuel cell and the motors.

The Hydrogen Fuel Cell System

The hydrogen fuel cell system is designed to provide a steady stream of power, rather than the transient bursts that motors need. The system consists of a 75kW hydrogen fuel cell, a 325kW, 36kWh battery, and two motors driving the front and rear axles. The fuel cell is supplied by Symbio, and teams are allowed to use their own fuel cell systems if they wish.

The Benefits of Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Hydrogen fuel cells offer several benefits, including:

1. Zero emissions during operation.
2. A reduced carbon footprint.
3. High efficiency.
4. A lower operating cost.

The Safety Features

The Pioneer 25 cars have several safety features, including:

1. A strengthened chassis.
2. Extra carbon-composite crash structures over the hydrogen tanks.
3. Energy-absorbing composite structures on either side of the car.

The Manufacturer’s Perspective

The Pioneer 25 cars are manufactured by Spark Racing Technology, a company based at Tigery, outside Paris. Each car is 6m long with a wheelbase of 3.2m, and is based on a tubular spaceframe chassis with front impact structures. The Technical Centre
Fortescue WAE, the company that provided the batteries for Extreme E, has opened a technical centre at Kidlington, Oxfordshire. The centre is also producing Extreme H batteries, but with a slightly smaller capacity than those used in Extreme E. The Event Schedule
The FIA Extreme H World Cup is expected to kick off later this year. The events will feature the Pioneer 25 cars, as well as on-site activities powered by stationary fuel cells.