Fuel cell system with metal hydride preheater for small vehicles
Fuel cell cargo pedelecs (FCCPs) offer the advantage of longer range, extended daily use and shorter refuelling times compared to other bicycle propulsion technologies, such as batteries. They are of interest, for example, for parcel and delivery services or tradespeople.
Together with the DLR Institute of Engineering Thermodynamics, the DLR Institute of Vehicle Concepts has developed a ‘preheater’ based on metal hydrides. This can be used to preheat and regulate components, especially the fuel cell in cargo bikes or other small vehicles. This enhances the efficiency and energy-saving capabilities of the fuel cell system. Metal hydrides can retain heat or cold without loss and release it at the push of a button. They do this by leveraging the different pressure levels of hydrogen between the tank and the fuel cell.
Link:
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Vehicle Concepts
Florian Heckert · Email Florian.Heckert@dlr.de