Nissan announces a world first in the future of mobility

Nissan is well known for its development of electric vehicles. The all-electric Leaf immediately springs to mind and many of our readers will also be familiar with the e-NV200 vans. The company is now taking the next step in its quest for efficient vehicle power generation.

A world first for automotive use, the new Solid Oxide Fuel-Cell (SOFC)-powered system features an e-Bio Fuel-Cell with an SOFC power generator. Sounds intricate…

SOFC is a fuel cell that efficiently utilises the reaction of multiple fuels (including ethanol and natural gas) with oxygen to produce electricity.

Unlike conventional systems, e-Bio Fuel-Cell features SOFC as its power source, affording greater power efficiency that gives cruising ranges similar to gasoline-powered vehicles.

The e-Bio Fuel-Cell’s distinct electric-drive features – including silent drive, linear start-up and brisk acceleration – give users the joy and comfort of a pure electric vehicle.

The e-Bio Fuel-Cell, using bio-ethanol, can offer eco-friendly transportation and create opportunities in regional energy production, while supporting existing infrastructure, Nissan claims.

With the bio-ethanol system, CO₂ emissions are neutralised from the growing process of the sugar cane that makes up the bio-fuel, allowing it to have a “carbon-neutral cycle”.

Running costs are also said to be remarkably low. Further, as ethanol-blended water is easier and safer to handle than most other fuels, it will remove limits on creating a totally new infrastructure.

Says Nissan: “The e-Bio Fuel-Cell will realise the concept of ‘Nissan Intelligent Power’, promoting greater efficiency and electrification of cars and the joy of driving, alongside battery electric vehicles, such as the ‘Nissan Leaf’, ‘Nissan e-NV200’ and ‘e-Power’, which is equipped with an engine housing an exclusive large-capacity motor and power generator.”