Welcome to our web site and the new Hydrogen Hybrid Bus. The prototype vehicle represents coupling many advanced technologies and is the result of an extensive partnership of designers, builders and planners.
The project is part of the National Fuel Cell Bus Program (NFCBP), which is administered by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The Project Team includes almost two dozen organizations from around the country.
The aerodynamic bus body design is lighter than current commercial alternatives but offers the strength of aluminum and steel construction. Made of a combination of fiberglass and carbon fiber, the Hydrogen Hybrid Bus has a low profile, easing passenger entry and exit.
One of the most revolutionary parts of our vehicle is its propulsion system. It is powered by a combination of advanced technology batteries and hydrogen fuel cells.
Called lithium titanate batteries, the design offers the very latest in charging technology, permitting rapid recovery and fast cycling. Fuel cells assist in recharging the bus's batteries when the vehicle is operating. The fuel cells generate electricity via the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen that produces water vapor, something harmless to the environment. Hydrogen for the fuel cells is supplied via fuel tanks mounted on the roof of the vehicle. Oxygen for the fuel cell reactions is captured and scrubbed from the exterior environment.
An important concept in the bus engineering is something called regenerative braking. This concept allows the bus to capture energy deceleration of the bus on downhill grades or other stopping events and uses it to recharge the onboard batteries.
When the bus is not in operation, it is recharged via an electrical charging set and the hydrogen fuel tanks are refilled.
The Hydrogen Hybrid Bus Team hopes you enjoy learning more about its world-class, one of a kind bus. Visit this site frequently to for updates! |