First Fuel Cell Hybrid with Plug-in Capability

Ford Motor Co. has unveiled the world's first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric plug-in combining an onboard hydrogen fuel cell generator with lithium-ion batteries to deliver more than 41mpg with zero emissions. The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive (shown on page 1), is built with a flexible powertrain that will let Ford use new fuel and propulsion technologies without redesigning the vehicle. The car is powered by a 336V lithium-ion battery pack at all times. The vehicle drives the first 25 miles each day on stored electricity alone, after which the fuel cell begins operating to keep the battery pack charged. This provides another 200 miles of range. Individual experiences will vary and can stretch out the time between fill-ups to more than 400 miles. Drivers with modest daily needs – those who travel less than 50 miles each day – would rarely need to refuel and will see fuel economy over 80 mpg, while those with long daily commutes will see less since the fuel cell must run a larger fraction of the time. The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive can travel up to 85 mph. An on-board charger (110/220 VAC) can refresh the battery pack when a standard home outlet is available, making the concept a true plug-in hybrid. When the battery pack is depleted to 40%, the hydrogen fuel cell – supplied by Ballard – automatically turns on and begins generating electricity to recharge the batteries. Like a conventional vehicle, the Ford Edge will go until it runs out of fuel – in this case via a 350-bar hydrogen tank that supplies 4.5kg of useable hydrogen.