As well as showcasing more conventional vehicles, Toyota is exhibiting one of its FCHV-4 fuel cell vehicles for the first time in Europe. Fuelled by compressed hydrogen, the prototype is based on its sports utility Highlander model. A number of units are currently undergoing tests in California and Japan, in preparation for the launch of a commercial version in limited numbers in Japan from 2003.
Also on view to the public for the first time was the Volkswagen Bora-based Hy-Power prototype, developed by a consortium headed by Switzerland's Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI).
Volkswagen Bora Hy-Power. Source: Paul Scherrer Institute.
Developed in conjunction with a number of organisations including Volkswagen, ETH Zurich, and FEV Motorentechnick GmbH, the Hy-Power on display successfully completed road tests through the Alps in January 2002. It is equipped with a proton-exchange-membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) developed by PSI. In addition, specially developed supercapacitors are also used in the vehicle, to store energy generated by regenerative braking.
Volkswagen Bora Hy-Power, detail of Fuel Cell. Source: Paul Scherrer Institute.
PSI is also developing advanced membrane technology for use in PEMFCs, which is longer lasting and better performing than existing materials on the market. It is not clear, however, if this material is used in the vehicle or still under development at PSI.
Finally, the Geneva Motor Show is also expected to feature the European unveiling of General Motors' cutting edge AUTOnomy prototype. A showcase for fuel cell and drive by wire technology, the vehicle could change the automotive rule book, and General Motors have applied for 24 patents to cover the design. However, a working version has yet to be built - the vehicle on display will be a full scale mock-up.