Mercedes-Benz F-Cell
The F-Cell is a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle developed by Daimler AG. Two different versions are known - the previous version was based on the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, and the new model is based on the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. The first generation F-Cell was introduced in 2002, and had a range of, with a top speed of. The current B-Class F-CELL has a more powerful electric motor rated at, and a range of about. This improvement in range is due in part to the B-Class's greater space for holding tanks of compressed hydrogen, higher storage pressure, as well as fuel cell technology advances. Both cars have made use of a "sandwich" design concept, aimed at maximizing room for both passengers and the propulsion components. The fuel cell is a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, designed by the Automotive Fuel Cell Cooperation Corporation.
There are 60 F-Cell vehicles leased to customers in the USA, Europe, Singapore and Japan.
Production
In December 2010, began its B-Class based F-Cell lease program with the first delivery to Vince Van Patten, with a further 69 to be on the roads in California by 2010.Hydrogen storage
The 350 Bar hydrogen tanks for hydrogen storage contain enough fuel for a drive. Using 700 Bar tanks the range is extended 70% to.Notable publicity
- On May 23, 2006, Daimler announced that its fuel cell vehicle fleets had achieved a combined mileage of over 2 million kilometers.
- On May 31, 2006, Daimler revealed that select individuals in California would be able to take their driving examination in an F-Cell.
- On July 6, 2006, Daimler leased 1 F-Cell to DHL Japan as delivery car in Tokyo area.
- On January 30, 2011, three F-Cell vehicles start on a 125-day long-lasting journey around the world.
- On June 21, 2011, Daimler announced it was moving up commercialization of the B-Class F-CELL to 2014
- On Jan 31, 2014 YouTube video uploaded of new F-cell fuel cell, no information known otherwise.