Edge HySeries: Plug-In, Hybrid, Fuel Cell

2007 Ford Edge HySeries

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Ford says its new HySeries concept is a first in the world of green cars. The concept, on display inWashington D.C., is the world’s first driveable fuel-cell plug-in hybrid.

The HySeries, Ford explains, uses a hydrogen generator and a lithium-ion battery pack to deliver 41 mpg with zero emissions. The powertrain can be modified to add on new propulsion technologies as well, Ford said in a release, meaning its hydrogen fuel cells could be swapped out for a diesel or a gas engine until fuel-cell power become a workable reality.

The HySeries Edge carries through on the promise of the Airstream concept Ford showed at the Detroit auto show earlier in January. Like that concept, the plug-in idea allows the vehicle to operate for short distances on battery power alone, raising fuel economy to 80 mpg in some instances. In total the HySeries could have a 225-mile range as designed, Ford claims.

Top speed is 85 mph. A standard home outlet can be used to recharge the vehicle.

Like Chevrolet’s recent Volt concept, the Edge HySeries would require a big leap in battery technology to become a reality, as today’s lithium-ion batteries aren’t quite up to the task -- especially in service life and cost. But Ford says it will continue to develop powertrains like the HySeries Drive in anticipation of the day when battery capacity will be higher and fuel cells more readily available.

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