Fuel cell range extender for battery electric vehicles

The will to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, the desire for independence from fossil fuels and increasing renewable sources of electrical energy has driven the development of electrified propulsion systems for vehicles in recent years. Despite a significant increase in driving range with the introduction of lithium ion technology, the storage of electrical energy in the vehicle still is the biggest challenge. This paper provides an overview of state of the art battery and range extension technology. Furthermore, it shows the key issues in range extender development. Finally, a fuel cell range extender working with hydrogen is introduced which is under development in the public funded project “BREEZE!” with partners from industry and research institutions.