Nissan claims to be working on a new ethanol-based fuel cell technology that could potentially be safer and cheaper than the hydrogen-based fuel cell technology that is currently under development by a number of OEMs.
It says the bio-fuelled Solid Oxide Fuel-Cell (SOFC)-powered system would be a world first for automotive. It features an e-Bio Fuel-Cell with an SOFC power generator. SOFC is a fuel cell utilising the reaction of multiple fuels, including ethanol and natural gas, with oxygen to produce electricity with high efficiency, the company says.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
The e-Bio Fuel Cell generates electricity through the SOFC (power generator) using bio-ethanol stored in the vehicle. The e-Bio Fuel-Cell utilises 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, Nissan says 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 joys and comfort of a pure electric vehicle (EV).
Nissan also held out the possibility of ethanol-blended water as a safe to handle fuel. "As this will remove limits on creating a totally new infrastructure, it has great potential for market growth," Nissan claimed.
Nissan also said that running costs will be remarkably low – on a par with today's EVs.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalData
