Eco Factor: Fuel cell to extend the range of EVs to more than 400 miles.
California-based fuel cell developers Oorja Protonics have unveiled new technology that according to the company can better the range of electric vehicles to up to 400 miles. The newly developed liquid methanol fuel cell, dubbed OorjaPac Model 1, will also be useful for long-haul trucks.
This new cell is claimed to be 50 times more powerful than rival technology. OorjaPac Model 1 comprises of an 11-gallon fuel tank full of methanol, which is produced from natural gas. It enables the vehicle to run for 16 hours after each refueling. These cell don’t directly power the vehicle, but ensure that the onboard batteries never discharge completely or end up being heat damaged.
Operating costs according to the company will be about $0.18 per kilowatt hour, and the overall cost of the system will also be competitive with currently used lithium-ion battery packs.
Via: Business Green
