Abstract
A very small electric vehicle, powered with a proton exchange membrane fuel cell operating on reformed methanol, is planned and designed in this paper to solve social problems associated with air pollution and heavy traffic conditions. The conclusions of this paper as follows; (1) Since the direct-hydrogen fuel cell systems produce only water and electricity, they are expected to be a power source for the next generation of vehicles by reason of ultra low emissions. (2) The compact body (2.5 m in length and 1.5 m in width) reduces the space necessary for parking, while ample interior space can accommodate a large volume air-bag to maintain safety. (3) Also, driving range is simulated from experimental output and performance data. The paper concludes that the fuel cell-powered electric vehicle has sufficient practical utility in urban areas and thruways.