Cadillac Unveils Provoq Concept

Cadillac's new Provoq fuel cell concept, the latest example of GM's E-Flex propulsion system, combines the new fifth-generation fuel cell system and a lithium-ion battery. This fuel cell technology is half the size of its predecessor.

The Provoq can drive 300 miles (483km) on a single fill of hydrogen -- 280 miles (450km) from hydrogen and 20 miles (32km) on pure, battery electric energy. A pair of 10,000psi (700bar) composite storage tanks beneath the rear cargo floor hold 13.2 pounds (6kg) of hydrogen to feed the fuel cell stack under the hood. There, hydrogen mixes with oxygen to generate up to 88kW of continuous power. A lithium-ion battery pack stores up to 9kWh and provides a peak of 60kW for additional performance.

The electricity generated by the fuel cell is distributed to a 70kW co-axial drive system for the front wheels and individual, 40kW wheel hub motors on the rear wheels, giving the Cadillac Provoq its all-wheel-drive traction and great driving dynamics. Its 0-60mph (about 100km/h) speed of 8.5 seconds is a 30% improvement over the previous-generation fuel cell system and with instantaneous torque to the wheels, it feels even faster. Provoq has a top speed of 100mph (160km/h).

Additional features include brake-by-wire technology and a solar panel integrated in the roof to help power onboard accessories. Front grille louvers close at highway speed to enhance aerodynamics and open at low speed to provide maximum cooling to the fuel cell stack.

Fuel Cell Switcher Locomotive Headed for Test

According to Railway Age, field tests are scheduled later this year for an experimental hydrogen fuel cell-switching locomotive under development by BNSF Railway and Vehicle Projects LLC. The locomotive has the potential to reduce air pollution, is not dependent on oil for fuel, and could serve as a mobile backup power source for military and civilian disaster relief efforts.

"While it's not a proven technology and the project is still in its infancy, we believe investments like the fuel cell switch locomotive are important for the advance of new technology," said Craig Hill, vice president, BNSF mechanical and value engineering.

Arnold Miller, president of Vehicle Projects LLC, commented, "Along with our principal partners, BNSF Railway and the U. S. Army, we at Vehicle Projects are developing proof- of-concept hydrogen fuel cell vehicles that are leading the way to this new technology."