Let's Explore Alternative Energy!
What is a Fuel Cell? l How Fuel Cells Work
Fuel Cell Power
How Are Fuel Cells Used?
A fuel cell produces a DC (direct current) voltage that can be used directly or converted to AC (alternating current) to power lights, motors and electrical appliances. Other fuels cells can produce enough energy to power utility plants and automobiles.
Appliances like television sets can also be powered by portable fuel cells. This is a 100-Watt portable Ballard® fuel cell demonstration unit powering a television and VCR combo. |
A fuel cell engine consists of a fuel processor, where a fuel other than hydrogen is used, an air supply subsystem, a cooling subsystem and controls. For the transportation market, combining these subsystems with the fuel cell creates a fuel cell engine, which can power a car, truck, bus or other vehicle. |
Honda Motor Company's hydrogen-fueled FCX fuel cell vehicle is now in the hands of customers. The FCX, powered by Ballard's latest generation Mark 902 fuel cell, seats four, has a range of 170 miles (270km) and can reach speeds of 93 mph (150km/h). Having made its commercial debut in December 2002, Honda is leasing five FCX vehicles to the City of Los Angeles and will market others by lease arrangement to customers in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area. Over the next two to three years, Honda plans to lease about 30 FCX cars in Japan and California.
Other automobile makers like Ford, Nissan and Chrysler-Mercedes have also developed fuel cell vehicles. |
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