Green power project - little hydrogen cruiser

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of converting an electric scooter to run on hydrogen fuel cells, focusing on performance goals such as speed and range. Participants explore the technical challenges of integrating fuel cells and hydrogen tanks into the scooter's design.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to achieve speeds of 40-45 mph with a hydrogen fuel cell system, questioning how long a liter tank of hydrogen would last with a 2000W motor.
  • Another participant notes that battery energy storage is typically proportional to size, suggesting limitations in battery performance.
  • A participant clarifies that while the fuel cell should fit in the battery compartment, the hydrogen tank may need to be mounted separately, raising safety concerns about high-pressure tanks.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the project’s worth, suggesting alternatives like adding a muffler to the gas scooter.
  • A suggestion is made to contact a supplier of fuel cells for more detailed information on the requirements for the project.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the feasibility or practicality of the proposed hydrogen conversion. Multiple viewpoints exist regarding the technical challenges and alternatives to the project.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the safety of high-pressure hydrogen tanks and the performance characteristics of fuel cells compared to batteries. There are unresolved questions about the specific requirements for motor selection and fuel cell integration.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in electric vehicle modifications, hydrogen fuel technology, and alternative energy solutions may find this discussion relevant.

linux kid
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I bought this stand up scooter for $850. It's made by a company called http://goped.com" . It can go upto 20mph and I weigh 142lbs. But the problem is, as with all electric scooters is they get low range. Mine get's about 10 miles and it runs on stock SLA batteries packs.

Picture: http://www.neoscooters.com/prodimages/goped-ESRExbig.jpg

I would like to go 40-45mph with plenty of torque. I already have a gas one that can do this but is too loud so I stopped riding is for my neighbors sake o:)

I would like to use Hydrogen fuel cells but how long would a liter tank of hydrogen last with a 2000W motor (my current one is 1100watts)?

How many fuel cells would I need? I wan't as much range as possible while still fitting the fuel cells in the 24"x12"x2" battery compartment.

Also can anybody suggest a motor?
 
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Batteries are not perfect and a battery's energy storage is almost always proportional to its size. Don't expect a battery to output more power for a longer distance and take up the same space.
 
KingNothing said:
Batteries are not perfect and a battery's energy storage is almost always proportional to its size. Don't expect a battery to output more power for a longer distance and take up the same space.

Well I said fuel cell should fit in the battery compartment but hydrogen tank may be about a liter and can be mounted separately somewhere.

Sorry about the confusion.Mybe I can get a high pressure tank for it and stuff it at about 5,000psi but would it be safe
 
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No one's going to help me? :frown:
 
I can't help you because I know next to nothing about it. It does seem to me, though, that it might not be worth the effort and expense.
Can't you just put a muffler on your gas machine and save the electric one for a grocery-getter or inner-city travel?
 
Try contacting a supplier of fuel cells. They will know the details you are after.
 

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