Intelligent Energy Launches New Hydrogen Fuel Cell for Passenger Cars

Intelligent Energy (IE) has launched the IE-DRIVE single stack platform, a hydrogen fuel cell system claimed to be more powerful and compact than any other for passenger cars. IE states that the IE-DRIVE™ can produce 157kW of electrical power, which is higher than any current single stack used in passenger cars. While this is a big step forward, it’s still unclear how this power will perform in real-world situations. Other companies like Toyota and Hyundai are also developing powerful fuel cells, so IE’s market advantage will depend on consistent performance in different conditions.

The IE-DRIVE™ is smaller due to IE’s patented direct water injection technology, which reduces the size of the heat exchanger by up to 30%. This could make it easier to fit hydrogen fuel cells into existing car models, but more long-term data is needed to confirm these benefits. The system also doesn’t need a humidifier, which cuts down on components and costs, potentially making it more reliable and easier to maintain. However, other manufacturers have made similar claims, so comparing actual performance and maintenance records will be important.

IE presents the IE-DRIVE™ as a system that easily fits into passenger cars without requiring major redesigns. Collaboration with car manufacturers will be key to proving this. IE aims to produce the system at a cost of $125 per kW by the end of the decade, making it competitive with battery electric vehicles and internal combustion engines. Achieving this will require large-scale production and efficient processes.

For hydrogen fuel cells to become widely used, a robust refueling infrastructure is needed. Currently, hydrogen refueling stations are far less common than those for gasoline and electric vehicles. Without significant investment in this infrastructure, widespread use of IE’s system will be difficult. Additionally, the environmental impact of hydrogen fuel cells depends on how the hydrogen is produced. Green hydrogen, made from renewable energy, is best but currently more expensive. Increasing production and lowering costs of green hydrogen are crucial for the environmental benefits of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.