Although the automotive industry has been steering toward electrification, internal combustion engines are still alive and are expected to remain the go-to option for high performance. The hydrogen combustion engine has proven to be a viable alternative that replaces traditional gas-powered engines.
While EVs are hailed as the future of the automotive industry, they have been marred by challenges such as long charging times, overreliance on rare earth minerals for production, and battery limitations. This suggests that hydrogen-powered combustion engines could be the perfect solution, offering the power and performance of traditional engines while being more efficient and cleaner.
The Secret Innovation in AVL Racetech’s Hydrogen-Powered Engines
As hydrogen-powered combustion engines gain momentum, an Australian company known as AVL Racetech has come into the limelight after breaking various records with a 400-horsepower hydrogen engine that operates at 6,500 RPM.
The AVL Racetech hydrogen engine features a significant advancement: a water injection system that eliminates preignition, a common issue with hydrogen due to its highly reactive nature. The water injection serves as a combustion control mechanism, optimizing engine performance by increasing overall power and torque while ensuring safety.
If left uncontrolled, colossal cylinder pressure can be dangerous to the engine. In addition to eliminating preignition, water injection helps cool the combustion chamber. Thanks to this technology, AVL’s hydrogen engine can produce 400 horsepower without compromising engine stability.
AVL’s Hydrogen Engine Adoption in Motorsports
The motorsports arena has long been a testing ground for cutting-edge technology, including hydrogen combustion engines. The AVL Racetech engine has delivered 405 horsepower, making it powerful enough to compete with some of the elite engines in motorsports. As a result, Pierre Fillon, the president of Le Mans organizer and WEC promoter of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, has announced plans to introduce hydrogen-powered engine prototypes to the race in 2027.
This is a game-changer, as motorsports have consistently proven to be platforms that drive innovation. Technologies tested on the racetrack often find their way into consumer car production. If hydrogen combustion succeeds in the racing world, it will only be a matter of time before hydrogen-powered cars become available to consumers.
Why Hydrogen Combustion Cars Would Be a Game-Changer in the Market
Hydrogen combustion cars seem like the ideal solution to the problems associated with EVs while also providing an alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles. Below are the key advantages of hydrogen-powered cars:
No Charging Hassles
Hydrogen combustion cars only require hydrogen refueling, which takes just a few minutes—similar to conventional gas-powered vehicles. This solves the issue of EV charging times, which can take up to 30 minutes or more.
Lightweight Performance
Unlike EVs, which rely on massive and heavy battery packs, hydrogen combustion engines are lighter while providing the same range capacity. Reducing weight improves performance, enhancing speed, handling, and overall driving dynamics.
Zero Carbon Emissions
Hydrogen combustion engines produce zero carbon emissions, unlike gasoline engines that release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. This makes hydrogen-powered engines an environmentally friendly alternative while still retaining internal combustion.
The Thrill of Engine Sounds
Many driving enthusiasts have complained about the lack of sound in EVs. Hydrogen combustion engines solve this by providing the roar of the engine, vibrations, and responsiveness that make driving more exciting.
These features make hydrogen combustion cars a strong alternative and a potential game-changer in the automotive market. Besides AVL Racetech, other companies such as Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Subaru Corporation, Toyota, Mazda, and Yamaha are committed to hydrogen technology. With interest from multiple fronts, hydrogen combustion engines may soon become a reality for real-world applications.