In 1994 the company produced “NECAR 1”, a van powered by a 30kW PEM type fuel cell.
Compressed hydrogen at 3600 psi was used and the vehicle, which had a top speed of 56 mph (90 kph), had a maximum range of 81 miles (130 km).
Between 1994 and 2005 the company produced about 13 different fuel cell powered vehicles, including 4 that used methanol (NECAR 3 in 1997, Jeep Commander 2 and NECAR 5 in 2000, and NECAR 5.2 in 2001).
NECAR 5.2 and the 2001 Natrium (mini van) model were fuel cell/battery hybrids and both had a maximum range of 300 miles (482 km).
The Natrium utilised an on-board hydrogen processor. Hydrogen being produced by reacting sodium borohydride fuel with borox.
In 2005 the company produced the F600 Hygenius, a hydrogen fuelled, research car.
The car used a 60 kW PEM fuel cell, with a lithium-ion battery to store any surplus energy. Power being provided from either the fuel cell or battery as required.
During parking the battery powered the car’s electric motor, whilst during acceleration the fuel cell and the battery both provided power.
During braking the electric motor also acted as a generator to charge the battery.
The car had a maximum range of about 250 miles (400 km) and a top speed of 105 mph (168 kph).
