Abstract

This project proposes the design and development of a hydrogen fuel cell system for electric vehicles (EVs) as an alternative to traditional battery-based powertrains. Hydrogen fuel cells offer several advantages, including faster refueling times and longer driving ranges compared to battery-electric vehicles. This project aims to design, prototype, and test a hydrogen fuel cell system optimized for EVs, addressing challenges such as efficiency, durability, and infrastructure compatibility. The project seeks to demonstrate the feasibility and viability of hydrogen fuel cell technology for sustainable transportation.

Introduction

As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, hydrogen fuel cell technology has emerged as a promising alternative to battery-electric vehicles. Unlike battery-powered EVs, which store electricity in onboard batteries, hydrogen fuel cell EVs generate electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water as a byproduct. This project aims to explore the design and development of a hydrogen fuel cell system specifically tailored for integration into electric vehicles, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable transportation future.

Problem

While battery-electric vehicles have gained popularity in recent years, they still face challenges such as limited driving range, long recharging times, and concerns about the environmental impact of battery production and disposal. Hydrogen fuel cell EVs offer a potential solution to these challenges by providing longer driving ranges and shorter refueling times, along with zero tailpipe emissions. However, the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cell technology for EVs faces obstacles related to cost, infrastructure, and technological maturity. Addressing these challenges requires innovative approaches to design and develop hydrogen fuel cell systems optimized for automotive applications.

Aim

The primary aim of this project is to design, develop, and prototype a hydrogen fuel cell system for electric vehicles, with a focus on efficiency, durability, and compatibility with existing infrastructure. The project aims to demonstrate the feasibility and viability of hydrogen fuel cell technology as a sustainable alternative to battery-electric vehicles, particularly for applications requiring longer driving ranges and faster refueling times. By optimizing the design and performance of the fuel cell system, the project seeks to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell EVs and contribute to the decarbonization of the transportation sector.

Objectives

1. Research existing hydrogen fuel cell technologies, automotive powertrain systems, and infrastructure requirements for hydrogen refueling.

2. Design the architecture and components of the hydrogen fuel cell system, including fuel cell stacks, hydrogen storage tanks, power electronics, and thermal management systems.

3. Develop and optimize control algorithms for managing the operation of the fuel cell system, including power output regulation, energy management, and fault detection.

4. Prototype and build a hydrogen fuel cell system prototype suitable for integration into an electric vehicle platform, considering factors such as size, weight, and compatibility with existing vehicle systems.

5. Conduct laboratory testing and validation of the fuel cell system prototype, evaluating performance metrics such as efficiency, power output, durability, and reliability.

6. Integrate the fuel cell system prototype into an electric vehicle platform for real-world testing and evaluation, assessing performance under various driving conditions and environmental factors.

7. Analyze the economic feasibility and environmental impact of hydrogen fuel cell EVs compared to battery-electric vehicles, considering factors such as production costs, infrastructure investment, and lifecycle emissions.

Research

The project involves interdisciplinary research in hydrogen fuel cell technology, automotive engineering, power electronics, and energy management systems. Initial research will focus on reviewing existing literature, standards, and technologies related to hydrogen fuel cell EVs and automotive powertrains. The design phase will involve designing the architecture and components of the fuel cell system, based on the findings from the literature review and market analysis. Development will include prototyping, testing, and optimization of the fuel cell system, leveraging simulation tools and experimental testing. Collaboration with industry partners, research institutions, and government agencies will ensure alignment with industry standards and best practices. Ethical considerations, such as safety, environmental impact, and regulatory compliance, will be addressed throughout the project lifecycle.