A Bridge to the Future

In the early 2000s, the push for cleaner automotive technology was gaining momentum. Ford Motor Company stepped into the spotlight with its innovative H₂RV, a hydrogen hybrid concept car that was ahead of its time. Based on the popular Ford Focus wagon, the H₂RV combined a hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine (ICE) with Ford’s Modular Hybrid Transmission System (MHTS). While hydrogen fuel cell vehicles remain a future goal, the H₂RV proved that clean, efficient, and practical hydrogen-powered vehicles could be built and driven today.

A New Kind of Powertrain

At the heart of the H₂RV is a 2.3L supercharged, intercooled hydrogen ICE paired with the MHTS. This powertrain delivers 110 horsepower at 4500 RPM and is supplemented by a 33-horsepower electric motor for a combined output of 143 horsepower. The system is powered by a 288V advanced lithium-ion battery, offering 25 kW of peak power and a continuous output of 10 kW from the electric traction drive.

This unique setup ensures near-zero emissions, including a 99% reduction in CO₂ output. The H₂RV achieves SULEV (Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle) standards, all while delivering a driving experience comparable to gasoline-powered vehicles.

Performance and Efficiency

The H₂RV isn’t just clean—it’s capable. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 11 seconds, making it a practical option for everyday driving. With a fuel economy of 45 miles per kilogram of hydrogen and a total driving range of 125 miles, the H₂RV proves that hydrogen ICE vehicles can be both efficient and functional.

Key specifications include:

• Curb Weight: 3,420 lbs

• Fuel Type: Compressed gaseous hydrogen at 5,000 psi

• Fuel Quantity: 2.8 kg of hydrogen for a range of 125 miles

A Bridge to Fuel Cell Technology

While the ultimate goal for Ford and the industry is the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, the H₂RV represents an essential stepping stone. Hydrogen-powered ICE vehicles like the H₂RV can help build the necessary infrastructure for hydrogen refueling and advance related technologies, such as onboard hydrogen storage and safety systems.

Dr. Gerhard Schmidt, Ford’s Vice President of Research and Advanced Engineering, explained the importance of this transition:

“The transition to a hydrogen economy will require unprecedented coordination between governments, fuel providers, and automakers. Whether we take that step is a decision for the public and governments, but Ford is ready with product today.”

Hydrogen ICE: Reliable and Ready

One of the standout features of the H₂RV’s hydrogen ICE is its reliability and ease of maintenance, which are on par with conventional gasoline engines. Hydrogen ICE vehicles have proven their durability with thousands of hours on test benches and more than 10,000 miles of real-world driving. Unlike fuel cells, hydrogen ICE engines are all-weather capable, with no warm-up time or cold-start issues.

The Path Forward

The H₂RV debuted to the public at Ford’s Centennial Celebration in 2003, where journalists and industry insiders were able to experience its capabilities firsthand. While the widespread adoption of hydrogen vehicles remains a work in progress, the H₂RV serves as a shining example of what’s possible when innovation meets practicality.

With a cleaner, more sustainable future on the horizon, the H₂RV stands as a testament to Ford’s commitment to developing cutting-edge technology that bridges the gap between the present and the future.