Fuel Cell Vehicle

Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) represent a radical departure from vehicles powered by conventional internal combustion engines. Rather than relying on energy from an external source, FCVs could potentially self-generate more than twice the amount of energy of an internal combustion engine — without the noise or emissions. As the U.S. moves to reduce its dependence on foreign oil and become more energy effi cient, this technology may well define the future of power and energy for the warfighter.

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has provided guidance, funding and technical management support in FCV research since the early 1990s. ONR and its partners across government, defense and private industry are exploring fuel cell power to expand warfighter capabilities — whether to reduce the size and weight of man-portable devices or to meet megawatt requirements for shipboard power.

Within the Navy and Marine Corps, ONR has long recognized that greater fuel efficiency can improve the effectiveness of U.S. forces. In the fi eld, fuel cell vehicles would increase mission endurance and stealth, while reducing logistical burdens and costs. Currently, two ONR-sponsored FCVs operate at the Marine Corps Base at Camp Pendleton. These vehicles provide instant torque from the start without a drop of oil, only emitting water vapor. FCVs require no pistons or cylinders. Because they have no transmission, FCVs relieve drivers of manual shifting. Acceptance of the technology is widening by users who fi nd them fun, clean and “green” to operate. Additional vehicles have been assigned, with yet another FCV due in spring 2009.