Plug + fuel cell = The future of Mercedes Benz
The Mercedes Benz vision for 2025 luxury
Mercedes-Benz F125! plug-in fuel cell hybrid introduces many futuristic technologies
By 2025 ICE-vehicles will still dominate auto sales according to every forecast available; however, alternative technologies should begin establishing a serious foothold in the mainstream market. While hybrid cars — still powered by ICE – will lead the way, plug-in hybrids and battery electrics could also hit double digit market share.
And some of those plug-in hybrids could be powered be new lithium-sulfur batteries and fuel cells, much like the Mercedes-Benz F125! plug-in fuel cell concept.
According to Mercedes, the F125! is based on technologies that should be commercially viable in about two more generations of development, such as plug-in fuel cell drives, Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs)-based hydrogen storage systems, and lithium-sulfur batteries.
The fuel cell stack enables the F125! to accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, while offering a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph). Fuel consumption should be 0.79 kilograms of hydrogen per 100 kilometers, or about 87 mpg US equivalent. Total range should be over 600 miles.
Moreover, thanks to the MOF-based hydrogen storage system, extra space is achieved in the F125 since the tank no longer needs to be cylindrical. Likewise, the new container offers better positioning for a lower center of gravity which leads to better driving dynamics and safety.
Furthermore, mated to next gen lithium-sulfur batteries, which should double the performance of today’s lithium-ion technologies, the F125 can use electricity-only for the first 31 miles. In addition to lithium-sulfur, Mercedes is concurrently advancing today’s lithium technologies, as well as developing lithium-air.
Finally, the F125 takes advantage of fiber-reinforced plastics, carbon-fiber, aluminum and high-strength steels to achieve the lightest, safest body. And speaking of safety, the F125 plug-in will use auto-drive for many common driving situations, including lane changes and, possibly, even passing other cars.
Overall, the F125! plug-in is quite futuristic, but the idea of plug-in fuel cell hybrids is beginning to take shape. Ford has been exploring the concept for years, GM has acknowledged the Chevy Volt could follow a similar evolution, and even battery maker Enerdel is in the game.
I’d bet the future of the automobile is going to be a little more diverse than what many are expecting, and a few surprises are sure to be part of this continually developing story.
