Volkswagen debuts its Tiguan HyMotion Fuel Cell Concept in the US

Mumbai: Volkswagen of America, Inc plans to introduce its future range of fuel-efficient cars in the US that include the Tiguan HyMotion Fuel Cell Concept, in addition to the all-new 2.0 litre TSI Tiguan and the 2.0 litre Jetta TDI, which will also make its North American debut.

According to the company, the broad range of near-term and future fuel-efficient powertrain technologies introduced in the new line-up will provide efficiency, utility and performance in the refinement and interior appointment,a hallmark of all Volkswagen vehicles.

The Tiguan HyMotion concept, unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show and the 2007 Michelin Challenge Bibendum, highlights the current state of Volkswagen's hydrogen fuel cell research and development. The concept features a hydrogen fuel cell system, which provides over 107 HP and produces zero tailpipe emissions (clean water vapor is its only bi-product). With an assist from the electric motor, the Tiguan HyMotion advances to 134 horsepower. The top speed of the Tiguan HyMotion is 93 mph and it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 14 seconds.

The innovative new Tiguan builds upon Volkswagen's ongoing development of the fuel cell as previously demonstrated with the Touran HyMotion.

The key component of each individual fuel cell - a number of them are combined into a stack - is a proton-conducting membrane. It is located between each anode and cathode pair. Hydrogen flows on the anode side, and air flows into the cell on the cathode side. When many of these cells are combined in a stack, enough energy can be generated to drive a vehicle.

In each cell, hydrogen and oxygen react to form water on the cathode side. The fuel cell thereby converts chemical energy directly into electrical energy in an oxidation, or "cold" combustion process. The generated "exhaust" is clean water vapour.