Hydrogen
In 2001, a turning point in our experimental programs on the use of hydrogen was the development of the Fuel Cell technology, which resulted in the construction of the first working prototype, the Seicento Elettra H2 FC. This alternative power system runs on pressurised hydrogen and on the oxygen contained in the air, which develops sufficient energy for driving in urban areas. The results are: a continuous speed of 60 km/h that is raised to 100 km/h with the contribution of the batteries; acceleration from 0 to 50 km/h in 8"; fuelling time of only 10 minutes; 100 km range thanks to the hydrogen cylinders and zero emissions. From the evolution of this technology, in 2003, we created the Seicento Hydrogen, a four-seater with a top speed of 130 km/h. In 2005 we produced the Panda Hydrogen prototype. Characterised by a sturdy and reliable power system, it features performances and habitability on a par with those of traditional vehicles. The new Fuel Cell System is an electric energy generator, mounted under the vehicle floor, which powers the electric traction motor and ensures optimal car driveability. The system is made up of three fuel piles, consisting of several cells connected in series, where the hydrogen and the oxygen are made to react with the aid of a catalyst, producing water and heat and generating high efficiency electric energy and virtually zero emissions. These prototypes are the fruit of the joint endeavours by Fiat, the Fiat Research Centre and Fiat Powertrain Research&Technology, with the support of the Ministry of Research and the Ministry of the Environment, and the collaboration of qualified component manufacturers, most of them Italian.