The Swedish Energy Agency has granted leading fuel cell technology company PowerCell a contribution of 7 MSEK for the MoRE Zero project, an ERA-NET, to develop a fuel cell system for use as a range extender for electric vehicles.

The project is aimed at increasing consumer awareness and acceptance of electric vehicles by increasing the range by means of installation of a zero emission range extender based on fuel cell technology, said a statement.

PowerCell, with the help of a funding granted by the Swedish Energy Agency of 7 MSEK, will develop a hydrogen-powered range extender for electric vehicles based on fuel cell technology in European ERA-NET project.

The agency will develop and demonstrate a fuel cell range extender for existing electric vehicles to be able to combine zero emission with high mileage.

As part of this project, PowerCell will develop a modular and scalable fuel cell system in the order of 20-25 kW, based on the power cells fuel cell technology.

Fuel cell systems must be integrated and demonstrated in three different types of electric vehicles by other partners in the project, said the statement.

Magnus Henell, CEO of PowerCell Sweden, said: “The fuel cell stacks that are made for these small power classes (less than 30 kW) are typically designed for stationary applications where packing volume and cost targets are not nearly as stringent as in the automotive industry.

“These designs require a smaller initial investment cost than automotive fuel cell stacks, but will never be anywhere near as cost-effective high volume. The PowerCell fuel cell stack is developed according to the standard for vehicles and for use in automotive environment and a power range that is appropriate for the range extender– application.”

PowerCell has developed fuel cell technology for more than a decade, and has perfected a unique design that enables the production of a light, versatile and reliable source of power for the automotive, transportation and stationary applications, said the statement.

PowerCell's fuel system converts hydrogen to electricity in an energy efficient and environmentally friendly manner, with zero emissions and quiet operation, it said.

The More Zero consortium consists of partners from four countries that have joined together in an ERA-NET project to develop a modular range extender concept that can be used in a variety of vehicles, based on the PowerCell’s fuel cell technology.

The partners in the project include Idiada, Spain; Triphase, Belgium; Hexagon Studio, Turkey; and E-Trucks Europe, Belgium.

ERA-NET is an instrument created for the European Commission to develop and strengthen the R & D collaboration between countries and regions in Europe, it said.

The Swedish Energy Agency operates in various sectors of society to create the conditions for an efficient, sustainable and cost-effective use of energy in Sweden, it added. - TradeArabia News Service