Mercedes-Benz of Germany unveiled a research vehicle that runs on either a fuel cell or lithium-ion battery and can double as a mobile power generator for camping or outdoor pursuits. The compact-class F600 Hygenius features new ideas that “push the envelop,” said Thomas Weber, who sits on the DaimlerChrysler board and heads the development department of the Mercedes Car Group. “The new fuel cell is some 40 percent smaller than before, yet significantly more efficient,” he said at the Tokyo Motor Show, which opened for the press near the capital Wednesday. “It consumes 16 percent less energy while delivering 30 percent more power,” he said. With any surplus energy being stored in a powerful lithium-ion battery, the system acts in a similar fashion to a hybrid drive, selecting either the fuel cell or the battery depending on the driving situation. During braking, the system enables the electric motor to act as a generator that recharges the battery, recovering up to 15 percent of the drive energy, Weber said. Reserved energy can also heat or chill drinks. In terms of diesel fuel, the vehicle consumes the equivalent of 2.9 liters per 100 kilometres (62 miles). It travels 400 kilometres on a single fueling. ap
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2005\10\24\story_24-10-2005_pg6_15