VW showed off its Tiguan HyMotion Fuel Cell Concept yesterday. The SUV produces no tailpipe emissions, as clean water vapor is the only byproduct of fuel cell vehicles. The HyMotion makes 107 horsepower on fuel cell technology alone and showcases the automaker’s current progress into fuel cell research and development.
While the vehicle has been previously shown at last year’s Shanghai Motor Show, this marks the first time it has been demonstrated in North America. Previously, VW showed off its fuel cell technology in the larger Touran HyMotion SUV. An electric motor is integrated into the Tiguan HyMotion’s powertrain, boosting its total output to 134hp when required. With a full charge, the concept is capable of accelerating to 60mph from a standstill in approximately 14 seconds and reach a top speed of 93mph.
The electric motor is powered by a lithium ion battery with a capacity of 6.8 Ampere-hours. It can be recharged while on the move either by energy harnessed during braking, or the fuel cell. VW says the Tiguan’s cargo capacity is not compromised, as the 700 bar, 3.2kg hydrogen capacity tank sits under the cargo floor. Like more conventional hybrid-electric vehicles when running on electric power, the HyMotion operates nearly silently.
There is no word when VW expects to bring its fuel cell technology to market.
