Dodge Fuel Cell Sprinter Includes the Latest DaimlerChrysler Fuel Cell Vehicle Technology

August 25, 2004 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - 

  • Increased Efficiency

  • Greater Driving Range
  • Improved Cargo Capacity

The Dodge Fuel Cell Sprinter, shown today for the first time publicly, has the latest advancements in DaimlerChrysler fuel cell technology. It is a reflection of 10 years of research and development in fuel cell vehicles.

Based on the production Sprinter Van, the new fuel cell powered Dodge Sprinter has the latest advancements in DaimlerChrysler fuel cell vehicle expertise, and fuel cell technology from its Fuel Cell Alliance partner, Ballard Power Systems. The entire Ballard fuel cell system is housed in the floor, leaving full use of the cargo space. Of course, the greatest benefit is operation with zero emissions.

Advancements in DaimlerChrysler fuel cell technology include:

  • Increased Range, Power and Efficiency
  • Instrumentation Enhancement
  • Reduced Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)

The first fuel cell Sprinter was introduced to commercial operations in 1999 and was the first medium-duty fuel cell powered vehicle in the world. Gaining knowledge and experience of the original fuel cell powered Sprinter, DaimlerChrysler improved upon the system design.

The Dodge Fuel Cell Sprinter is front-wheel drive and is equipped with an automatic transmission. The 85kW electric motor produces 170 lb-ft of torque. Electric power is provided by an 85kw Ballard MK 902 fuel stack. Housed under the cargo floor and in-between the frame rails are five fuel tanks which hold a combined 30 kilograms of hydrogen at 5,000 psi to provide an improved range of 155 miles. A regenerative braking system allows the supplemental battery pack to charge during braking. The battery also gives added power during acceleration.

With 474 cubic feet of cargo space and a cargo capacity of 2,000 pounds, the Dodge Fuel Cell Sprinter will allow customers to move large loads with ease. The vehicle has 73 inches of headroom to allow users ease of movement inside the cargo area.

“With the Dodge Fuel Cell Sprinter, DaimlerChrysler proves its commitment by adding to an already successful fleet of fuel cell vehicles,” said Dr. Andreas Truckenbrodt, head of fuel cell and advanced powertrain development for DaimlerChrysler. “We have laid the groundwork and continue the development of zero emissions technology in transportation.”

The Dodge Fuel Cell Sprinter has improved packaging with smaller, quieter powertrain components allowing for a better overall driving experience. The instrumentation has also been upgraded to give the operator more information about the fuel cell and battery system while the vehicle is in operation.

DaimlerChrysler has placed more fuel cell vehicles on the road around the world than any other automotive manufacturer. The company continues to add customers while developing partnerships with government agencies and companies to build technology and accelerate the development of infrastructure. DaimlerChrysler provides its customers with a variety of advanced propulsion options, including advanced gasoline engines, modern diesels, hybrid powertrain systems and fuel cell vehicles, to meet diverse needs over a timeline that extends into the future.


Contact Information

Nick Cappa
Office: (248) 512-4266
Cell: (248) 202-8039
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