Optimization of the Fuel Cell Powertrain within the Triangle of Technology, Cost and Customer Requirements

Authors

Dr.-Ing. S. Dehn, NuCellSys GmbH, Kirchheim/Teck-Nabern; Dr. rer. nat. J. Wind, Prof. Dr. rer. nat. C. Mohrdieck, Daimler AG, Kirchheim/Teck-Nabern

Year

2017

Print Info

Fortschritt-Berichte VDI, Series 12, No 802

Summary

Daimler AG is a technology leader in the field of automotive fuel cells. Over two decades, competence, know-how and extensive experience have been built up from component up to vehicle level, in hydrogen infrastructure, as well as by the long-term operation of two generations of vehicle fleets, also in customer requirements. When it comes to optimization of fuel cell drive, the parameters of customer requirements, technology, cost and also hydrogen infrastructure have to be taken into account. Depending on the weighting of the parameters, the vehicle category and the point in time of the analysis, one is led to different configurations of a hybrid fuel cell drive. The resulting generic types of powertrain architectures are described. In the practical implementation, also the availability of standard components plays an important role for the piece cost. A current solution as well as the resulting well-to-wheel energy and greenhouse gas balance is discussed in detail taking the Mercedes-Benz GLC F-CELL as an example.