Mercedes has exposed a new showcase for its F-CELL hydrogen innovation in the shape of the idea Sprinter F-CELL camper van. The research study is based on the tractor head variant of the latest award-winning Sprinter van, as well as is fitted with a basic camper van conversion body over a hi-tech drive system.
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The innovation in this special Sprinter is a advancement of that already seen in the Mercedes GLC F-CELL, as well as like that model, power comes from a fuel cell stack that sits under the bonnet where the diesel engine would normally be. The electricity it makes is then sent to the rear-mounted electric motor as well as transmission, which makes 197bhp.
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Where the Sprinter F-CELL differs from the GLC version is the amount of hydrogen it can carry. There are three tanks under the floor as well as a fourth at the rear, which integrate to enable it to bring 8.4kg of hydrogen, providing this camper a prospective variety of 310 miles of zero-emissions driving. The Sprinter F-CELL likewise has a battery pack – similar to the one discovered in the forthcoming eSprinter, which can provide an additional 19 miles of range.
Another benefit of the hydrogen fuel system is that individuals will no longer requirement to discover an outside power supply to power the mod cons usually discovered in a camper van. Instead, the electricity utilized to drive the Sprinter can likewise be utilized to power the fridge, cooker as well as warm water for an on-board shower. That means individuals will no longer discover it necessary to pitch up in a campsite as well as struggle with extension leads to get power to their mobile home.
Of course, the huge problem with the idea Sprinter F-CELL is to do with the lack of facilities to go with its hydrogen fuel cell technology. With less than a handful of filling stations in the UK, this camper will be a niche choice, if Mercedes decides to put it into production.
Will hydrogen powered campervans ever catch on? let us understand your view in the comments…