Nissan unveils world's first Solid-Oxide Fuel Cell vehicle

Summary

Nissan is advancing its vision for a zero-emission, zero-fatality society with its Intelligent Mobility initiative. The company is applying innovative EV technology in Brazil, using bioethanol-powered solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) systems, known as E-biofuel technology. This alternative fuel approach enhances driving range, reduces battery charge time, and leverages existing infrastructure. By utilizing bioethanol, produced from crops like sugarcane and corn, the system produces hydrogen, which powers the vehicle while maintaining a carbon-neutral cycle. Nissan aims to launch this sustainable technology by 2020, offering efficient, clean, and exciting electric vehicles.

Takeaways

• 😀 Nissan's goal is to create a zero-emission, zero-fatality society.
• 😀 Nissan Intelligent Mobility is focused on making cars more exciting through innovation in how they are driven, powered, and integrated into society.
• 😀 The company is advancing its electric vehicle (EV) technology in Brazil with the use of an alternative fuel source.
• 😀 The prototype vehicle uses a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system, powered by bioethanol, called E Bofu Cell technology.
• 😀 The E Bofu Cell technology generates electricity from bioethanol, extending the driving range while reducing the need for battery charging.
• 😀 Bioethanol fuel, derived from plants like sugar cane, corn, or soy, is abundant in North and South America and supports the EV's sustainable operation.
• 😀 The system reformulates ethanol into hydrogen, which is used to generate electricity, reducing battery charging time while offering a longer range.
• 😀 A small amount of CO2 is produced during the hydrogen generation process but is neutralized by the plants that grow the bioethanol, creating a carbon-neutral cycle.
• 😀 The prototype can achieve a cruising range of over 600 kilometers, while retaining the benefits of electric mobility such as silent operation and brisk acceleration.
• 😀 Nissan expects its E biofuel technology to be ready by 2020, integrating alternative energy sources for cleaner, more efficient, and enjoyable driving.
• 😀 The goal is to offer exciting new ideas that bring value to customers and promote the future of electrification and intelligent vehicles.

Q & A

What is Nissan's goal with the Intelligent Mobility initiative?

Nissan's goal with the Intelligent Mobility initiative is to create a zero-emission and zero-fatality society by redefining how cars are driven, powered, and integrated into society.

What technology does the prototype car use in Brazil?

The prototype car in Brazil uses a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) powered system, which Nissan calls the 'E Biofuel Cell' technology.

How does the E Biofuel Cell system differ from conventional systems?

Unlike conventional systems, the E Biofuel Cell uses bioethanol fuel to generate electricity, increasing the driving range of the electric car while reducing battery charge time.

What are the benefits of using bioethanol as a fuel source?

Bioethanol, commonly produced from sugar cane, corn, or soy, is widely available in both North and South America. It allows for a more efficient use of existing infrastructure while contributing to a carbon-neutral cycle when reformed into hydrogen.

What is the driving range of electric vehicles using the E Biofuel technology?

Electric vehicles using the E Biofuel technology can achieve a driving range of more than 600 kilometers while maintaining the advantages of electric mobility, such as quick acceleration and quiet operation.

How is hydrogen produced in the SOFC system?

In the SOFC system, hydrogen is produced through the reforming of ethanol. This hydrogen is then used to generate electricity for the vehicle.

Does the process of producing hydrogen from ethanol create CO2 emissions?

Yes, a small amount of CO2 is produced when ethanol is reformed into hydrogen. However, these CO2 emissions are neutralized by the process of growing the plants used to produce bioethanol, resulting in a carbon-neutral cycle.

What is the expected timeline for the availability of the E Biofuel technology?

The E Biofuel technology is expected to be ready as early as 2020.

How does the use of bioethanol fuel contribute to the future of electrification and intelligent vehicles?

The use of bioethanol fuel, combined with alternative energy sources, helps make the electrification of vehicles more efficient, cleaner, and fun to drive. It is a step forward in promoting sustainable mobility solutions.

What advantages do electric vehicles powered by the E Biofuel technology offer over traditional electric vehicles?

Electric vehicles powered by the E Biofuel technology offer the advantages of a longer driving range, reduced battery charge time, and the environmental benefits of using a carbon-neutral fuel source.