Theoretical Propulsion System for Fuel Cell Vehicles with Infinite Cruising Range

: The realization of a clean automobile society would require electrically-powered propulsion systems in vehicles. In recent years, electric vehicles have attracted considerable attention from the perspective of utilizing electricity generated from natural sources, such as solar and wind power. The propulsion method considered in the present investigation differs from the conventional off-board energy scheme in a manner such that pure stoichiometric H 2/ O 2 fuels for fuel cells are generated on-board during vehicle operation. In this method, energy conversion occurs by means of ESI-PSE (electrostatic-induction potential-superposed electrolysis). If a quasi-static process is assumed, the theoretical power requirement to produce pure stoichiometric H 2/ O 2 fuels is only 17% of the total energy required owing to a new method for supplying power to the EC (electrolytic cell). If an ESI-PSE EC is combined with a fuel cell (FC) to form an energy cycle, a HREG (hydrogen redox electric power generator) that uses solid PEMs (polymer electrolyte membranes) for the EC as well as the FC can be realized. According to calculations based on data from the operational conditions of commercially available ECs and FCs, more than 70% of the power delivered from the FC can be extracted for driving a motor constantly while a car is in motion. Because of energy self-sustainability on the HREG side, the power control system should not have any power loss. This propulsion system will realize tough vehicles that can continue running at a top speed at long unlimited cruising range.