A Project by the South Coast Air Quality Management District,Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide Inc., and ECD Ovonics

摘要

This paper presents the vehicle specifications, modifications, and performance of the world’sfirst hydrogen powered hybrid electric vehicle deployed for fleet use in the South Coast AirQuality Management District (SCAQMD). To date, the high cost and uncertain durability of fuelcells have limited the deployment of fuel cell vehicles, therefore limiting the deployment ofhydrogen infrastructure. In the interim, hybrid electric and conventional vehicles equipped withhydrogen fueled internal combustion engines can stimulate the demand for hydrogen, expeditethe development of infrastructure, and provide a bridge to fuel cell vehicles. Hybrid electricvehicles equipped with hydrogen powered internal combustion engines have the potential toeliminate VOC, CO and CO2, as well as possibly reduce Nox, and other toxic emissions.As a means of addressing market requirements for fuel-efficient hydrogen-powered vehicles,Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide Inc. (Quantum), with funding from theSCAQMD, developed a hydrogen-powered hybrid electric vehicle, based on the 2005 ToyotaPrius. All system integration, including component fabrication, assembly, system calibration,and testing, was performed in-house at Quantum’s Advanced Vehicle Concept Center in LakeForest, California. Quantum’s calibration and software skill sets, along with supportingelectronics and powertrain laboratories, were leveraged to develop the hydrogen internalcombustion engine package using OEM guidelines for start-ability and drive-ability, whilemaximizing fuel economy, and minimizing emissions.Engine dynamometer testing consisted of:? Base engine mapping and performance characterization on gasoline;? Hydrogen conversion followed by engine fuel and spark mapping along with emissionsmeasurement (naturally aspirated);? Conversion of the induction system and exhaust system to incorporate a turbocharger andintercooler and fuel and spark mapping; and? Engine durability testing.Similarly, vehicle testing included:? Development of an engine calibration for acceptable cold/hot start-ability and drive-ability;? Performance of acceleration testing and assessment of grade capabilities;? Calibration and documentation of a charging strategy to ensure adequate performance; and? SULEV emissions testing.Hydrogen standards have not been released, so Quantum followed FMVSS 303 protocols fornatural gas (CNG) where appropriate for component selection, integration, and vehicle crashtesting. NGV2 standards were also applied to the hydrogen storage vessels in order to complywith U.S. Department of Transportation requirements. Hydrogen sensors, interlocked with thevehicle’s control system, were installed in the engine compartment and over the fuel storagemodule.The vehicles deployed in the SCAQMD have similar performance to the gasoline version. Inaddition, interior space and general utility is unchanged from the gasoline production vehicle.The 30-vehicle demonstration fleet will be monitored for five years for overall performance andSULEV emissions compliance.