Whether it is Indycar racing, NASCAR, or Top Fuel Dragster normal petrol can not be used to drive all the cars used in these racing events. To drive these cars such fuel is needed, and the base ingredient found in every alcoholic beverage: Ethanol. This drinkable ethanol is used in these super-fast cars because it is produced from grains and sugarcane. From which hangover drinks are made and it is also highly flammable like petrol nowadays.

Ethanol is being discussed everywhere because it can also be used to drive normal passenger vehicles like a race cars, and ethanol is considered to be a fuel that can reduce the dependency on countries like India, which imports crude oil in huge quantities. Middle eastern countries have surplus crude oil and it is important because their dependency on India for crude oil imports is increasing yearly.

What is Flex Engine?

During the year 2022-23, the demand for crude oil in India increased by 73% and a bill of $ 90 Billion was to be paid by India. All this is happening because the number of car owners in India is increasing every year. That's the reason Shri Nitin Gadkari said in an interview,” In a span of about 6 months, Every petrol engine in India whether it is a two-wheeler, three-wheeler, and four-wheeler will consist of a flex engine”. To elaborate on what Shri Nitin Gadkari said that the flex-fuel engines about which Shri Nitin Gadkari mentioned are also Internal Combustion Engines just like any normal car or motorcycle which are visible on Indian roads. 

But the Flex-fuel engines differ in such a way that these can use flex-fuel for their operation which means a fuel that has both petrol and ethanol mixed in some proportion In India, currently, all the vehicles run on E10 petrol which means fuel that has 10% ethanol And 90% of petrol and you must have heard about E10 petrol earlier. But the Indian government wants that In the next couple of years, E20 fuel should be used in all vehicles Which will consist of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol E20 petrol is now available in some selected firms in some states of India Now. It is getting claimed about flex fuel will cause less air pollution and the dependency of India on foreign crude oil would reduce which is right in some sense. 

What are the benefits of using Flex Fuel?

But some more facts should not be ignored when we are already promoting electric vehicles, hydrogen, and hybrid vehicles so much then what is the need for this flex fuel? And how would it be beneficial? And how flex fuel can again increase the prices of vehicles in India and how the environment would be impacted after the heavy usage of ethanol.

History of Ethanol Flex-Fuel Engine

First of all, let's understand why ethanol is getting promoted before that let's understand, the history of vehicles driven by ethanol cars driven by flex-fuel was introduced about 100 years ago. Ford Model T, which was developed between the years 1908-1927, was capable to move with ethanol-blended petrol and this car consisted of an adjustable jetting carburetor which made it possible for the car to drive with ethanol-blended petrol. Apart from Ford, other car manufacturers also started doing the same but for almost half a century petrol was very cheap. Hence the automotive manufacturers did not find it economical to use ethanol-blended petrol But due to the occurrence of the oil crisis in the year 1973 there was a shortage of petrol and after this many countries started realizing that oil dependency is not good for any country's economy. Since then the concept of flex-fuel was started getting promoted but still, it could not come into the limelight because till now, even after the shortage, Petrol was available in surplus quantity and till now Global Warming was a myth. 

Since the beginning of the 21st century countries started realizing the importance of flex-fuel and global warming was the major reason behind this which had now become the reality. In August 2018, American Coalition for Ethanol published a research paper According to which E85 Flex fuel, Emits about 50% fewer greenhouse gases as compared to petrol this E85 flex fuel, consists of 85% ethanol and 15% petrol due to this countries like Brazil, Canada, Sweden, and the US Produced vehicles that can run on E85 flex fuel or 100% ethanol very long ago. While the U.S. was the only country that produces ethanol the most but the US does not use the ethanol produced in the automobile sector this is done by Brazil.

Brazil might be the 2nd largest producer of flex-fuel in the whole world but Brazil is the largest consumer of flex-fuel in the automotive industry. In the year 2018, 27 million cars were in Brazil, which means more than 73% of the total cars in Brazil were driving via ethanol-blended petrol now the biggest question arises, Why only Brazil? That is because, When there was a fuel crisis all over the globe Brazil too was affected by the fuel crisis. But Brazil had an advantage that was only present in Brazil and that was Sugarcane. Sugarcane is such a crop from which Ethanol can be extracted since sugarcane is composed of starch and sugar.

How Ethanol is Produced?

If we look into the basic of this process and try to understand this process from the basics then this process includes, harvesting the sugar and firstly extraction of juice from it the sugarcane juice is then fermented. In the process of Fermentation, CO2 gas is emitted from this sugarcane juice In a very huge numbers and after this, the obtained product is sent for distillation finally, ethanol is developed. Ethanol can be extracted from other grains as well like corn and America produces a major portion of ethanol from corn. Now Brazil obtained an advantage from sugarcane because it is the world's biggest producer of sugarcane. Brazil is producing sugarcane in huge quantities since the 16th century. To manufacture sugar from it and export it as well. 

Why is the Indian Government Pushing Flex Fuel?

This advantage of the heavy production of sugarcane is also present in India Like Brazil, India also produces sugarcane in huge quantities. While today, India is ranked 2nd in the whole world for the production of sugarcane. 

But till now, the major portion of the sugarcane harvested in India was getting used for the production of sugar. Nowadays, India is producing a very huge quantity of sugar a major portion of the sugar produced is kept unused. India is producing surplus sugar from the year 2010 which means we are producing sugar more than what is required since sugar is available in surplus quantity in India. Due to this reason, the Indian government wants to get benefitted from this and the Indian government is promoting flex fuel so much The Indian government has set a target for the year 2025 To make E20 fuel compulsory for all vehicles. In December 2022, SIAM, (Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers) addressing an event organized by SIAM the road and Transport Minister of India Shri Nitin Gadkari said that every year the prices of crude oil fluctuate Which causes a lot of trouble and that's why we must move towards 100% flex-fuel vehicles. That is a clear indication that the Indian government is very interested in this flex fuel and especially Shri Nitin Gadkari.

TVS Apache RTR 200 FI E100

The TVS Apache RTR 200 FI E100: A High-Performance Motorcycle with Ethanol Fuel Capability.

The TVS Apache RTR 200 FI E100 is a motorcycle that runs on Ethanol and has the following specifications:

• Fuel Type: Ethanol

• Engine: 197.75cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, oil-cooled Si 4 valve

• Power output: 21 bhp @ 8,500 rpm

• Torque: 18.1 Nm @ 7,000 rpm

• Fuel system: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with twin-spray-twin-port system

• Fuel tank capacity: 12 liters

• Brakes: 300mm petal disc with ABS (front), 240mm petal disc (rear)

• Suspension: Telescopic fork (front), mono-shock (rear)

• Tyres: 90/90-17 (front), 130/70-17 (rear)

• Transmission: 5-speed gearbox

• Kerb Weight: 153 kg

• Top speed: 129 km/h

• Price: INR 1.2 lakh as of February 2023.

Flex Fuel Vehicle showcased in 2023 AutoExpo India

In October 2022, Shri Nitin Gadkari Launched India's first flex-fuel stock hybrid car, Corolla Altis, this car was introduced in India as a pilot project vehicle and TATA MOTORS flaunted their GTI Engines in the Auto Expo 2023, these engines can also support flex fuel which is E20 which is by the new Indian norms and also Maruti showcased its all-new the TVS Apache RTR bike which runs on Ethanol Flex Fuel. Bajaj also launched its bike Bajaj Pulsar NS160 Ethanol Flex Fuel.

Now we have understood the two major benefits of flex-fuel.

1. The first is the reduction in carbon emissions. 

2. The second and crucial advantage is self-reliance on fuel production.

3. The third benefit would be from the forex reserves In the financial year 2022, India spent $ 119 Billion To purchase crude oil India used the major portion of its forex reserves to import oil and petroleum products. But ethanol blending can reduce this spending and we have already observed its proof when the target of E10 flex fuel was achieved by India. Then, in August 2022, Shri Narendra Modi said that In the past 6-7 years, India has saved more than $ 6 Billion of its forex reserves, and after the full usage of E20 fuel more than $ 4 Billion in forex reserves would be saved annually and the energy demand in India is going to shoot up very rapidly in the coming years.

That's why it is important to become self-reliant in the energy sector 

4. The Fourth and last benefit of Ethanol production is employment. As we have just discussed, Ethanol can be extracted from crops like sugarcane. This would increase the earnings of the farmers and the rural economy would also grow. Because for the production of Ethanol, plants would be set up in rural areas and workers would be needed for the proper operation of these plants.

Negative impacts of Flex Fuel

But there also exist some negative impacts too in the production of ethanol from sugarcane The first and the biggest negative impact is the water crisis According to a report published by the Niti Aayog To produce a liter of ethanol from sugarcane 2860 liters of water are needed. Apart from this, In July 2020, a research paper was published according to which, to complete the target of E20 ethanol-blended petrol set for the year 2025, 1320 Million tons of sugarcane would be needed. Which will require additional 19 Million Hectares of Land and an additional 348 Billion cubic meters of water would be required. If you look into this very closely then these are huge numbers to increase the production of ethanol the production of sugarcane has to be increased and ultimately high sugarcane production could become the reason for water pollution. Because the fertilizers and slit emitted from the sugarcane farms and sugar mills would pollute the freshwater ecosystem.

Today, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Mesoamerican Reef in Brazil Pollutants are getting dumped which is polluting the coral ecosystem. By the way, India is very behind in the production of ethanol even though, India produces a surplus amount of sugarcane the major portion of the sugarcane produced is consumed as sugar and today India is standing 13th in the world in the production of ethanol. But as soon as the production of ethanol would increase the third bigger problem would also arise which is food security.

Food Security due to ethanol extraction

India produces 84% of its ethanol from sugarcane 10% from rice And the rest from corn In December 2022, in India, The retail inflation of rice was 10.5% and that of corn was 17.5% But when the dependency on transportation on ethanol would increase India has to use a major portion of its crops in the production of ethanol which will eventually lead to more inflation. But the Indian government is trying to produce ethanol from various raw materials Like Parali, sugar, wheat, potatoes, etc. But the success would only be known in the coming years. 

There is one more major problem with ethanol which is not linked to our food but is linked to your pocket. Today, a liter of ethanol costs INR 65, and INR 97-98 for a liter of petrol. Hence, ethanol is about INR 32-33 cheaper than petrol and this is a huge difference. But the per molecular energy of ethanol is less than that of petrol therefore to obtain the same amount of energy about 1.6 Litres of ethanol is to be burned. While 1 Litre of petrol can produce exactly the same amount of energy and if we observe in this way, Then, the price difference between ethanol and petrol would be very less and your pocket would not be impacted highly. It could be slightly expensive only but another thing that can make a hole in your pockets is the development of flex-fuel engines by the automotive Manufacturers for the E20 petrol. 

The major changes the automotive Manufacturers have to do in the engine are a change in the material of the engine to protect it from corrosion by ethanol and a change in the injection system of the vehicles due to this, the cars which are already very expensive. Due to heavy taxes and the BS6 upgradations Will become even more expensive. An extra load would also be imposed on the automotive Manufacturers because they are already investing huge capital in the Research and Development of electric and hybrid vehicles and they have to invest highly in the production of upgraded BS6 engines. In the end, all these expenses would be extracted from the consumers.

What are the Indian Models of Ethanol Flex Fuel

Currently, there are a few Flex Fuel vehicles available in India, including the TVS Apache RTR 200 FI E100 and some models from Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors. As more car manufacturers enter the Flex Fuel market and the government continues to provide incentives for clean energy adoption, Flex Fuel technology will likely become more widespread in India in the coming years.

Conclusion

By now you must have understood that Flex fuel has both advantages and serious disadvantages. But the benefit is mainly focused on the reduction of the dependency on fossil fuels because at the end of the day, emissions would not stop from the Tailpipe and as mentioned previously the mileage of any vehicle drops due to ethanol because more amount of ethanol is to be consumed by the engine, to produce the same amount of power and due to this, the tailpipe emissions would not reduce in huge numbers. Because in the end, you are burning more flex-fuel in comparison to petrol. 

Do let me know your thoughts about this flex fuel, according to you what things could improve due to this flex fuel? And in what ways the flex fuel would be beneficial to Indians?

 When we hear the name Cummins, within a fraction of a second you might think of a diesel engine. After all, that's what their entire business is built on. But recently they have ventured into the world of Hydrogen Combustion Engines (where hydrogen is used as a fuel) and could eventually replace the massively successful and long line of diesel engines? It sounds crazy!

Why on Earth would Cummins even think to pursue hydrogen engines when their entire business is built on diesel engines? Designing them, producing them, supplying them, they're all over the world. But it is true, they are pursuing hydrogen engines.

So, let me drive you into the most renowned brand Cummins and what is the reason behind their pursual of hydrogen engines? What is in it for them? Is their money to be made? Is there some sort of innovation that they have? What are they doing? Too many questions. Let's take a look at Cummins.

Why there is a need for Hydrogen Engine?

We see huge money daily and year after year, being invested into electric vehicle systems. Companies like Ford and other big automakers are putting tons of money into electric vehicle systems and we can get to know from the EPA's (Environmental protection agency) scheduled emissions restrictions, that life for gasoline and diesel-powered engines is going to get very difficult, if not outright impossible shortly. 

And keeping in mind, there is a possibility that the free market will be going to willingly choose electric over fossil fuel vehicles anytime soon, due to pricing and range concerns. But rather that it’s being forced by a branch of the government, and because of that, we have seen the electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, also known as EVs and PHEVs, popping up left and right from just about every single automaker in the world.

Vehicle Electrification

Vehicle electrification is can help individuals who live in the city, who do not have long commutes, and especially do not have to use their vehicles for work, so something like the Ford F-150 lightning, it’s not a particularly great work truck because of the range when towing and hauling, 

But what about people who don't live in the city? What about off-highway construction? What about over-the-road long-distance trucking? 

There are a lot of applications where electricity simply just doesn't make sense as of right now. Well, you might be thinking to yourself, well, we have electric semi-trucks coming soon, but there's a huge amount of work to be done before said electric semi-trucks are useful for long-distance hauling of goods. The massive infrastructure required simply is not there yet, it doesn't mean that it won't be there, or can’t be there, it's just simply not yet of course.

Why lithium extraction is expensive?

On the other side, it is worth mentioning that lithium mining is incredibly destructive, cobalt mining involves literal child labor in the Democratic Republic of Congo in some of the worst conditions imaginable, and fossil fuel power plants are still supplying the power required to charge vehicles, at least still in the country like India and partially in the US and upcoming countries. It is almost exclusively supplied by fossil fuel power plants. And that still needs to cover off-highway construction where electricity simply is just not a good option because of the location of where the work is being done.

Suppose you wanted to use electric vehicles for bringing materials in and out of electric machinery in an off-Highway construction site. In that case, you’d likely need a huge diesel generator on site to supply the electricity for those vehicles, which kind of defeats the purpose. Don’t underestimate the ridiculous amount of power required for an electric vehicle to operate. So, that brings us back to the internal combustion engine, but as we mentioned, the EPA has scheduled emissions restrictions that are coming shortly, that are going to strangle gas and diesel engines.

Cummins Hydrogen Powered Combustion Engines

If one wants to keep the internal combustion engine in use, then they have to switch the fuel source to something cleaner, which is exactly why Cummins has been putting money into Hydrogen-Powered Engine solutions for on-the-road trucking, off-highway construction, and so on. And with something like a Cummins-powered generator, it could more easily have the electrical generation required to power off-highway construction with electric vehicles bringing materials in and out or just having electric construction equipment like an excavator and so on. Now, it doesn't mean that we're going to see electric excavators becoming incredibly popular anytime soon, as it likely won't happen for another 20 to 40 years. 

So, that takes us to Cummins's two new hydrogen-powered engines which are based very much on two types of diesel that already exist in Cummins's portfolio, which are the 6.7 liters that you can find in applications like the Ram 2500 and the 15 liters that one can find in applications like commercial trucks. And even more, interestingly, Cummins isn't developing these strictly as hydrogen-fueled engines, but rather as fuel-agnostic engines that can be powered by either Diesel or Hydrogen, which then massively eases concerns regarding the lacking infrastructure required for a strict hydrogen engine.

They're doing this by using a  shared common short block for both the Diesel and the Hybrid fuel engines. The major change in Cummins Hydrogen Engine from a regular Diesel engine is everything from the head gasket down is just about the same, but everything from the head gasket up has to be changed for the new fuel type. And by sharing a common short block and as many components as they can, it not only makes development cheaper and easier but also makes it much easier to convert existing 6.7-liter and 15-liter engines over to the new hybrid fuel design shortly, at least in theory.

Cumins new biogas and HvO Fuel Engine

And on top of that, they're not even stopping there. This new fuel-agnostic platform is also expanding to biogas fuel and hvo fuel, giving prospective buyers lots of options coming very soon. For now, though, the big news and attention mostly lie on hydrogen fuel engines, and well part of the reason is that they’re not exactly practical yet. Because, the thing is you have to generate hydrogen, which requires electricity you can't generate energy for free. There are multiple videos on YouTube regarding hydrogen generators and how you can plug one into your car, and don’t get me wrong, that's very interesting. But if we think pragmatically building an onboard hydrogen generator that can power a 6.7-liter or 15-liter engine simply isn't practical. It would be physically massive.

Liquid hydrogen /On Board Hydrogen Generating

So, the other solution if you want to have a large 6.7L or 15L engine powered by hydrogen is by using liquid hydrogen and to do that you need to have an onboard storage tank or multiple onboard storage tanks, but there’s only one problem, hydrogen isn't a liquid, at least not until it's cooled to negative 423 degrees Fahrenheit. Now, that in itself takes energy, and then the hydrogen won't stay in that liquid state as it heats back up, which then means you need to have a massively pressurized holding tank to keep it in that liquid state, that means the standard fuel tank cannot be used, it has to be swapped out. 

It is not that a hydrogen-powered future is impossible. I do believe hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines have a lot of potentials, but simply that onboard generation will be a very challenging task with an engine this large. It’s just not going to be possible as of right now, which means we're stuck with using liquid hydrogen, which then has its own sets of hurdles and obstacles to overcome. And on top of that, just one question here, if it takes electricity to generate hydrogen through electrolysis to then burn through a combustion engine then why don't we just use that electricity to power an electric motor connected to the wheels, in the first place?

How Cummins is preparing for an alternative to Electricity?

That takes us right back to the start. Some hurdles must be cleared for hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines to be adopted in masses. On the bright side, hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines are very similar to compressed natural gas engines, which again, simplifies the development process even further. And because the upcoming Cummins hydrogen-powered engines are based on existing Cummins diesel engines, that almost eliminates the possibility of reliability issues, since existing Cummins diesel is incredibly reliable or at least as reliable as they can be given the emission systems that we know plague reliability.

Cumins Hydrogen Engine Specifications

That means it can also build up to existing transmissions, generators, etc. It can also use the same cooling systems and a bunch of components. It makes it much easier by using a shared platform. Cummins Hydrogen internal combustion Engine specifications are 6.7-liter hydrogen engine outputs an impressive 216  kilowatts and 1200 newton meters, which translates to 290 horsepower and 885 pound-feet of torque.

And Cummins believes that hydrogen-powered engines will be complementary to battery electric vehicles like buses and trucks, but that one powertrain type won't completely replace the other. As I mentioned earlier, there will be significant use cases for both types of engines, and I think that's exactly what Cummins is trying to prepare for. By not switching entirely to hydrogen, by not switching entirely to electric, they're diversifying their product lineup and preparing to offer products for a wide range of applications.

Has Cummins's diesel segment been dead?

No, far from it. We're going to see Cummins diesel engines produced for a very long time and if they can massively clean up their diesel engines without adding even more reliability plaguing emission systems, by using something, like, ducted fuel injection or something, to come up with some sort of innovation to help clean up their engines, we could see Cummins diesel engines being used for another 20/30/40/50 years, depending on how they evolve. But, with the upcoming EPA regulations, we know that it that in fact might not be possible. So, Cummins is preparing for the worst and they're diversifying their product lineup by offering engines that can run on multiple different fuel sources by running on the same base engine.

Other Companies that are developing Hydrogen Powered Engine

And it's also worth noting, it's not like Cummins is doing this on their own. There are a ton of different companies putting money into hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines. Over in Japan, companies like Mazda, Yamaha, Toyota, and Kawasaki, have all banded together to develop hydrogen solutions. All of these companies compete with each other in some way, yet they're working together towards saving the internal combustion engine.

Cummins is also working with various other companies to push this technology and make it a truly viable solution, because again, battery electric vehicles are simply impractical for long distances over the road trucking and Highway construction, at least for now. And while this is all very interesting and very exciting, we likely won't be seeing either the 6.7-liter or 15-liter hydrogen engines enter production for quite a while.

As per Cummins, the 15-liter engine will enter full production in 2027 and the 6.7-liter should be as soon as 2023.

In my opinion, the diesel engine still has a way to go, it's still going to be used for quite a while because as mentioned previously, off-highway construction is a huge hurdle to clear for electric vehicles and is simply not going to be practical for a significant amount of time. The next decade, two, or three, will have a lot of innovation in the automotive world, in the engine world, and we could see things change massively. So, all we can do as of right now is just sit back and wait to see how this all unfolds. 

Conclusion

In summary, while Cummin's Hydrogen Engine is an exciting development, it's unlikely to be the sole cause of the decline of diesel engines in the short term. However, it's a step towards a more sustainable future for transportation and could eventually play a significant role in reducing emissions and improving air quality in the coming years.

 If you imagine how a human being getting thrown out of a car during an accident or imagine a person sitting right back to you in a car becoming a projectile when the car gets collided from the front. This happens after the collision when the car is stopped suddenly, but your body wants to stay in motion and it gets stopped only after colliding with something. This whole concept is based on Newton's First Law of Motion. 

And the same law was observed in the accident case of Cyrus Mistry when he died in a car accident because he became a projectile inside his car. All these people would not have died if they had used the three-point seat belt which was introduced by Volvo during the 1950s and this belt saves 15,000 lives per year. 

Leader of Safety Car: Volvo

In the US alone Volvo invented 3 point seat belt during a time when some manufacturers were busy increasing the speed of vehicles. Some manufacturers were busy increasing the size of the cars and some manufacturers were busy improving the mileage of the car. That's why in the current market Volvo is known for manufacturing safe vehicles like the way, Bugatti is known for its high-speed cars Volvo invented the seat belt. 

But it was not the only reason due to the safety associated with the brand Volvo. Volvo had also introduced Curtain airbags, blindspot detection, door over protection, and many such safety features that have been either invented by Volvo. Volvo was among the first manufacturers which used these safety features in their vehicles. And that's why in the whole world the safety ratings of Volvo have always remained high.

Why Volvo has lost its identity in manufacturing safe vehicles

But today, things have changed because now, Volvo has lost its identity in manufacturing safe vehicles because all these cars have performed exceptionally in the Euro NCAP in the whole world. And only one car from Volvo has been listed in this chart and that too at the 17th position.

History of Volvo Car Company

The story of Volvo starts in the year 1927 when the parent company of Volvo used to manufacture ball bearings and ball bearings were used heavily during World War 1. This company used to bathe in money at that time now, this company wanted to utilize this money correctly and they decided to start an automotive company. The founders Assar Gabrielsson and Gustav Larson Started a car Manufacturing Company whose motive was to save the lives of the people and Volvo started inducing its intention of building safe cars.

How Volvo became the market leader in the world with its safety?

From the very early stage of its origination In the year 1944, Volvo introduced its first passenger car PV444 this car was based on a unibody design. While almost all the cars at that time were based on ladder frame chassis. Volvo did differently from others because the unibody design was safer in comparison to others. But not only this, Volvo started providing safety cages for its first car which was built with high-end stainless steel and not only this PV444 came with a laminated glass windshield. So that the glass pieces do not harm the passenger during any accident Volvo has remained innovative from its very first cars in terms of its safety features. But the biggest innovation done by Volvo Was during the 1950s. When Nils Bohlin, an engineer at Volvo Prepared a design for the three-point seat belt during the 1950s, the Detroit plants used to work on full load in the US. But the manufacturers barely thought about the lives of their users. It can be observed that today, a three-point seat belt is available in every vehicle, as a basic safety feature and it is because Volvo is a good inventor.

Volvo's Seat Belt Patent 

A great brand because even though Volvo had the patented rights to this seat belt Still, Volvo still made this feature free to use for other manufacturers as well. This was the biggest revolutionary invention done by Volvo. But Volvo did many other inventions as well in the safety department. Apart from this safety belt, in the year 1964, Volvo introduced its Rear-facing child seats. In the year 1978, Volvo introduced its Booster seats and in the year 1991, Volvo started providing seat belts in the rear seats of the cars as well. it was made a norm in the cars of Volvo and in the very same year, Volvo also introduced a side impact safety protection system in its cars. This system used to come by default in all Volvo cars After this, in the year 1997, Volvo in its C70 sports car introduced the rollover protection system. This was a system or structure which, at the time of overturn or rollover Saves the passenger from any injury. By either preventing the rollover or protecting the passengers after the rollover exactly a year later, After introducing this safety feature.

In the year 1988, Volvo invented its famous WHIPS, And in the year 1999, It was made compulsory in all Volvo cars WHIPS stands for Whiplash Protection System. This invention helps in the prevention of neck injuries during the occurrence of a sudden accident. Volvo's own traffic accident research team According to them, WHIPS has resulted in a 33% reduction in short-term injuries and a 54% reduction in long-term injuries. With all these safety features which were just mentioned. We can understand that Volvo is a great innovator in terms of safety standards and it was continuously achieving such milestones for safety features.

 The function of the Hydrogen Fuel Cell stack is used to drive the motor by producing electricity. Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) are powered by hydrogen. One of the major components in FCEVs is Fuel Cell System (Fuel Stack).

The Fuel cell stack consists of a stack containing up to several hundred fuel cells; it forms the core of the fuel cell system. In each one of these cells arranged in series, a “cold combustion” process takes place that converts the energy from the chemical reaction between the continuously fed hydrogen and airborne oxygen into electricity. This takes place when the hydrogen is catalytically split down into electrons and protons.

Fuel cells have several potential applications, including powering vehicles, providing backup power for homes and businesses, and serving as a source of electricity in remote or off-grid locations. However, they are currently more expensive to produce than traditional fossil fuel-based power sources, and the infrastructure for distributing and storing hydrogen fuel is still under development.

What is Fuel Cell/ Hydrogen Fuel Cell?

A hydrogen fuel cell is a device that generates electricity by converting the chemical energy of hydrogen fuel into electricity through a chemical reaction with oxygen. Fuel cells are a promising technology for generating electricity because they are relatively efficient, produce very little pollution, and can operate using a variety of fuels, including hydrogen, natural gas, and methanol.

Working of Fuel Cell

In a hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen gas is fed into the anode (negative electrode), where a catalyst causes the hydrogen atoms to split into protons and electrons. The protons pass through an electrolyte membrane to the cathode (positive electrode), while the electrons are forced to take an alternative path through an external circuit, generating an electric current. At the cathode, the protons and electrons are reunited with oxygen from the air to produce water, the only byproduct of the process. The hydrogen fuel cell is a clean, efficient source of power that produces only water as a byproduct, making it a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based energy sources.

How much energy Hydrogen Fuel Cell can produce?

The fuel cell stack is the heart of a fuel cell power system. It generates electricity in the form of direct current (DC) from electrochemical reactions that take place in the fuel cell. A single fuel cell produces less than 1 V, which is insufficient for most applications. Therefore, individual fuel cells are typically combined in series into a fuel cell stack. A typical fuel cell stack may consist of hundreds of fuel cells. Roughly 400 cells can produce 400 - 500 KW of power. The amount of power produced by a fuel cell depends upon several factors, such as fuel cell type, cell size, the temperature at which it operates, and the pressure of the gases supplied to the cell.

A typical fuel cell produces a voltage from 0.6 to 0.7 V at a full-rated load. Voltage decreases as current increases, due to several factors such as:

Activation loss

Ohmic loss (voltage drop due to resistance of the cell components and interconnections)

Mass transport loss (depletion of reactants at catalyst sites under high loads, causing rapid loss of voltage).

To deliver the desired amount of energy, the fuel cells can be combined in series to yield higher voltage, and in parallel to allow a higher current to be supplied. Such a design is called a fuel cell stack. The cell surface area can also be increased, to allow higher current from each cell.

Components of Hydrogen Fuel Cell

There are several key components in a fuel cell:

Anode:

The anode is the negatively charged electrode where the fuel is introduced. This is the negative terminal of the fuel cell, where the fuel enters the cell and is oxidized. It is typically made of a porous, conductive material that allows the fuel to flow through it and come into contact with the catalysts.

Cathode:

The cathode is the positively charged electrode where the oxidizing agent is introduced. This is the positive terminal of the fuel cell, where the oxidizing agent (usually oxygen) enters the cell and is reduced. It is made of a porous material that allows the oxidizing agent to flow through it and come into contact with the catalysts.

Electrolyte Membrane:

The electrolyte is a thin layer of material that separates the anode and cathode (fuel and oxidant). It allows protons to pass through, but not electrons. It separates the anode and cathode and helps to prevent direct contact between the fuel and oxidizing agent. This creates an electrical potential difference between the anode and cathode, which drives the chemical reaction that generates electricity. For example, in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), the electrolyte is a proton exchange membrane.

Catalysts:

Catalysts are substances that help to accelerate the chemical reactions that take place at the anode and cathode. They are usually made of precious metals such as platinum or palladium.

Gas diffusion layers:

Gas diffusion layers are porous materials that help to distribute the fuel and oxidizing agent evenly across the surface of the electrodes.

Current collectors:

Current collectors are conductive materials that help to collect the electricity produced by the fuel cell and transmit it to the external circuit.

Bipolar plate:

The bipolar plate is a conductive layer that separates the anode and cathode of the fuel cell. It acts as a conductor, allowing electrons to flow from the anode to the cathode, and it also helps to distribute the fuel and oxidant evenly throughout the cell.

Flow field:

The flow field is a series of channels or grooves etched into the surface of the bipolar plate. It helps to distribute the fuel and oxidant evenly throughout the cell, and it also helps to remove excess heat from the cell.

Cooling system:

Fuel cells generate a lot of heat during operation, so they need a cooling system to keep the temperature within an acceptable range. This is a system that removes heat from the fuel cell to keep it operating at an optimal temperature. This is typically a water-based system, but other materials such as air or a refrigerant can also be used.

Types of Fuel Cell

There are several types of hydrogen fuel cells, including proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFCs), molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs), and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Each type has its own unique characteristics and is suited for different applications.

There are several different types of fuel cells, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. Some of the main types include:

Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC):

PEM fuel cells use a proton-conducting polymer membrane as an electrolyte. These cells use a polymer membrane as an electrolyte and are often used in portable and portable power applications, such as in vehicles and portable electronics. These are the most commonly used fuel cells in portable and transportation applications. They operate at relatively low temperatures and use hydrogen as fuel. 

Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFCs):

Alkaline fuel cells use an aqueous alkaline electrolyte, typically potassium hydroxide, and are known for their high efficiency and long lifespan and are suitable for use in space and military applications. They are often used in large-scale stationary power applications. These fuel cells were some of the first to be developed and are commonly used in space missions due to their high efficiency and ability to operate at low temperatures. They use hydrogen as fuel.

Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells (MCFCs):

Molten Carbonate fuel cells use a molten carbonate electrolyte, typically lithium or sodium carbonate. MCFCs use lithium potassium carbonate salt as an electrolyte, and this salt liquefies at high temperatures, allowing for the movement of charge within the cell – in this case, negative carbonate ions. Like SOFCs, MCFCs are capable of converting fossil fuel to a hydrogen-rich gas in the anode, eliminating the need to produce hydrogen externally. The reforming process creates carbon-dioxide emissions. Known for their high efficiency and durability and can operate at high temperatures (around 650°C). 

They are suitable for use in stationary power generation such as in power plants and co-generation systems and have high efficiency. They use hydrogen or natural gas as fuel.

Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs):

SOFC-type of Fuel cells use a solid oxide electrolyte, typically made of ceramics, and can operate at high temperatures (around 1000°C) and are known for their high efficiency and durability. Similar to proton exchange membrane fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cells, they extract electricity from the electrochemical conversion of hydrogen- and oxygen-containing gases, leaving only water as a by-product. Current SAFC systems use hydrogen gas obtained from a range of different fuels, such as industrial-grade propane and diesel. They operate at mid-range temperatures, from 200 to 300 °C. They are suitable for use in stationary power generation and have high efficiency. They can use a variety of fuels, including hydrogen, natural gas, and biofuels.

Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells (PAFCs):

Phosphoric Acid fuel cells use liquid phosphoric acid as an electrolyte and are suitable for use in stationary power generation and co-generation systems. The electrolyte is highly concentrated or pure liquid phosphoric acid (H3PO4) saturated in a silicon carbide matrix (SiC). 

The operating range is about 150 to 210 °C. This high temperature will cause heat and energy loss if the heat is not removed and used properly. This heat can be used to produce steam for air conditioning systems or any other thermal energy-consuming system. Using this heat in cogeneration can enhance the efficiency of phosphoric acid fuel cells from 40 to 50% to about 80%. The electrodes are made of carbon paper coated with a finely dispersed platinum catalyst. They have high efficiency and are relatively easy to maintain. They use hydrogen or natural gas as fuel.

Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFCs):

DFMC fuel cells use methanol as fuel and are suitable for use in portable power applications. They have a high energy density and are relatively easy to refuel.

Hydrogen Economy: The Importance of Fuel Cells in Sustainable Energy Systems

Hydrogen fuel cells have several potential advantages over traditional energy sources. They are highly efficient, with some fuel cells achieving conversion efficiencies of up to 60%. They also produce zero emissions, making them a clean and environmentally friendly source of power. In addition, hydrogen is an abundant, widely available resource, and fuel cells can use a variety of hydrogen sources, including fossil fuels and renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric power.

The importance of fuel cells in sustainable energy systems lies in their ability to provide clean, efficient power while reducing the world's reliance on fossil fuels. The use of hydrogen as an energy source can help to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and reducing dependence on non-renewable resources.

The transportation sector is one area where fuel cells have shown significant promise. Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) are already in production, and leading automotive companies are investing heavily in the technology. FCVs have the potential to provide a zero-emission alternative to traditional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles, with the added benefit of being able to refuel quickly and travel long distances.

In addition to transportation, fuel cells are also being used in stationary power applications, including backup power for critical infrastructure and distributed power generation. Fuel cells can provide reliable power in areas with limited access to traditional power sources, helping to improve energy security and resilience.

The importance of fuel cells in sustainable energy systems cannot be overstated. As the world continues to grapple with the negative impacts of climate change, the use of hydrogen and fuel cells can help to provide a sustainable, reliable, and efficient source of energy. With ongoing research and development, it is expected that fuel cells will play an increasingly significant role in the global transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

The Economics of Fuel Cells: Cost Analysis and Market Potential

The economics of fuel cells is a critical factor that needs to be considered. In this article, we will explore the cost analysis and market potential of fuel cells.

The cost of fuel cells has been a significant obstacle to their widespread adoption. While the cost of fuel cells has decreased in recent years, they are still relatively expensive compared to traditional energy sources such as fossil fuels. The primary cost drivers for fuel cells include the cost of materials, production processes, and system integration.

In terms of materials, platinum is one of the primary materials used in the production of fuel cells, and its high cost has been a significant factor in the overall cost of fuel cells. Research efforts are currently underway to develop alternative materials that can replace platinum and reduce the cost of fuel cells.

Another significant factor contributing to the cost of fuel cells is the production process. Fuel cells require high-precision manufacturing processes, and this can be time-consuming and expensive. However, as the demand for fuel cells increases, it is expected that economies of scale will bring down the cost of production.

The cost of integrating fuel cell systems into existing infrastructure is also an important consideration. For example, the cost of retrofitting a building with a fuel cell system can be significant, and this can be a significant barrier to adoption.

Despite the high cost, the market potential for fuel cells is significant. The transportation sector, including buses and trucks, is one area where fuel cells have shown promise, and many leading automotive companies are investing in fuel cell technology. Additionally, fuel cells can also be used in stationary power applications, such as powering homes and businesses.

In conclusion, the economics of fuel cells is a critical factor in their widespread adoption. While the cost of fuel cells is still relatively high, ongoing research efforts and economies of scale are expected to bring down the cost of production. As demand for clean and sustainable energy sources continues to grow, fuel cells have the potential to play a significant role in meeting this demand.

Conclusion

However, there are also some challenges to the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cells. One major challenge is the cost and availability of hydrogen fuel. Hydrogen must be produced and stored, which can be energy-intensive and expensive. Additionally, hydrogen fuel cells require expensive materials, such as platinum, which can make them expensive to produce.

 Drum brakes are a braking system commonly used in cars, trucks, vans, and buses. They consist of a cylindrical drum, which rotates with the wheel, and brake shoes, which press against the inside of the drum to slow the vehicle down. Drum brakes have been used in vehicles for decades and are known for their durability and reliability. They are also relatively easy to maintain and can be serviced by most mechanics.

One of the main benefits of drum brakes is their compact design, which makes them a good option for vehicles with limited space for braking components. They are also relatively inexpensive to manufacture and install, making them a cost-effective option for many vehicles.

What are a Drum Brake and its material?

A drum brake is a type of braking system that uses brake shoes to press against the inner surface of a brake drum to slow or stop a vehicle. The brake shoes are typically made of the friction material and are housed within a brake drum, which is typically made of cast iron or aluminum.

When the driver applies pressure to the brake pedal, a brake master cylinder converts the force into hydraulic pressure, which is then sent through brake lines to the brake drums. Inside the brake drums, brake shoes are pressed against the inner surface of the drums by brake pistons, creating friction that slows or stops the vehicle.

The brake shoes are typically held in place by a brake drum, which is attached to the wheel hub. As the brake shoes press against the drum, the friction between the shoes and the drum causes the wheel to slow down. The brake drum also serves as a heat sink, dissipating the heat generated by the friction between the brake shoes and the drum.

Drum brakes are typically used on the rear wheels of vehicles, as they are cheaper to manufacture and less complex than disc brakes, which are typically used on the front wheels. However, drum brakes are less efficient than disc brakes and can be less effective in stopping a vehicle in wet or slippery conditions.

Components of Drum Brakes and their working

Brake shoes: These are the friction pads that press against the brake drum to slow down or stop the vehicle.

Brake drum: This is the cylindrical component that the brake shoes press against to slow down or stop the vehicle.

Wheel cylinder: This is the component that pushes the brake shoes against the brake drum when the brake pedal is pressed.

Return springs: These springs push the brake shoes back to their original position when the brake pedal is released.

Adjusting mechanism: This is used to adjust the distance between the brake shoes and the brake drum.

Hardware: This includes the mounting hardware and fasteners that hold the brake assembly in place.

Functioning of Brake Drum:

When the brake pedal is pressed, brake fluid is sent through the brake lines to the wheel cylinder. This causes the piston in the wheel cylinder to push the brake shoes against the brake drum. The friction between the brake shoes and the brake drum slows down or stops the vehicle. The return springs push the brake shoes back to their original position when the brake pedal is released. The adjusting mechanism is used to ensure that the brake shoes are the correct distance away from the brake drum.

How to Tell if Your Drum Brakes Need Replacement

Several signs indicate your drum brakes may need replacement. Here are some of the most common indications that your drum brakes need attention:

Reduced braking power: If you notice that your brakes are not working as effectively as they used to, it may be time to replace the drums.

Grinding or squealing noise: If you hear a grinding or squealing noise when you apply the brakes, this could be a sign that the drums are worn and need to be replaced.

Vibration or pulsation: If you feel a vibration or pulsation in the brake pedal when you brake, this could be a sign that the drums are out of round or have excessive wear.

Pulling to one side: If your vehicle pulls to one side when you brake, this could indicate that the drums are unevenly worn and need to be replaced.

Warning light: If your vehicle's brake warning light comes on, it could indicate that there is an issue with the drum brakes.

Scraping or dragging sound: If you hear a scraping or dragging sound when you are driving, it could be a sign that the drums are worn and need to be replaced.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your drum brakes inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. In most cases, drum brakes need to be replaced when they have worn out or have been damaged.

Why Drum Brakes are used?

Drum brakes are used for a variety of reasons, including:

Cost: Drum brakes are generally less expensive to manufacture and install than disc brakes, making them a cost-effective option for many vehicles.

Durability: Drum brakes are known for their durability and can withstand heavy use and harsh conditions.

Space-saving design: Drum brakes are compact in design, making them a good option for vehicles with limited space for braking components.

Easy maintenance: Drum brakes are relatively easy to maintain and can be serviced by most mechanics.

Versatility: Drum brakes can be used in a wide range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, vans, and buses.

Reliability: Drum brakes are known for their reliability and can last for many years with proper maintenance.

Traditional use: Drum brakes have been used in vehicles for decades, and many manufacturers continue to use them in their vehicles as they are a proven technology.

Better heat dissipation: Drum brakes can dissipate heat better than disc brakes, which makes them ideal for vehicles that are driven for long periods or for heavy-duty use.

However, drum brakes can be less efficient than disc brakes in terms of stopping power, especially in wet or muddy conditions. They tend to generate more heat than disc brakes which can lead to brake fade if the vehicle is driven for long periods or for heavy-duty use.

Overall, drum brakes are a proven technology that is widely used in vehicles for their cost-effectiveness, durability, and reliability.

 Solar energy systems are a clean and renewable energy source that can significantly reduce a building's carbon footprint and energy costs. Solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity that can be used to power a building. The electricity generated by solar panels is clean, meaning it doesn't produce any harmful emissions or pollutants that contribute to climate change. They are also relatively easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings.

Being a clean energy source, solar energy systems can also significantly reduce a building's energy costs. Solar panels can generate electricity at a lower cost than traditional fossil fuel sources, which can save the building owner money on their monthly energy bills.

Types of Solar Energy Systems

There are two main types of solar energy systems: 

Photovoltaic (PV) systems: PV systems use solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity, which can be used to power homes and businesses. They are made up of solar panels, an inverter, and a battery. Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity. The inverter converts the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is what is used in buildings. The battery stores excess electricity for use during times when the sun is not shining.

Thermal systems: Thermal systems use the sun's energy to heat water or air for use in buildings. They use solar collectors to absorb the sun's energy and transfer it to a fluid, such as water or air. The heated fluid is then used to heat water or air for use in buildings. There are two main types of thermal systems: active systems and passive systems. Active systems use pumps or fans to circulate the heated fluid, while passive systems rely on natural circulation.

So in this, we will be looking at PV Systems further.

How does Solar Power System Work?

A solar energy system is a system that uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. Solar energy is converted into electricity through the use of solar panels. Solar panels are made of photovoltaic cells, which are made of semiconductors like silicon. When sunlight hits the cells, it excites the electrons in the semiconductor material and causes them to flow, creating an electric current.

This electric current is then sent through an inverter, which converts the direct current (DC) produced by the solar panels into alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity used in homes and businesses. The AC electricity is then sent to a meter, which measures how much electricity is being produced, and is then sent to a power panel, which distributes the electricity throughout the building.

The size of a solar energy system depends on the electricity needs of the building and the amount of sunlight the location receives. A larger system with more solar panels will be able to generate more electricity, while a smaller system will generate less.

Some solar energy systems also include storage systems, such as batteries, which allow excess electricity to be stored for use when the sun is not shining. This allows for a more stable and reliable source of electricity.

The solar panel system is connected to the grid and can either provide electricity to the home or business or send excess electricity back to the grid for others to use. This means that when the sun is shining and the solar panels are generating electricity, the home or business will use that electricity before drawing from the grid. When the sun is not shining, or when the solar panels are not producing enough electricity, the home or business will draw electricity from the grid.

What is Net metering?

If the solar panels are producing more electricity than the building is using, the excess electricity can be sent back to the grid for others to use. This process is known as net metering and can result in credits on the building's electricity bill. 

Net metering is a system that allows solar panel owners to sell excess electricity generated by their panels back to the grid. This is done through a special meter that measures the amount of electricity a solar panel system produces and the amount of electricity it uses. If the solar panel system generates more electricity than it uses, the excess electricity is sent back to the grid, and the building owner is credited for the excess electricity. If the solar panel system uses more electricity than it generates, the building owner is charged for the difference.

Net metering helps to encourage the adoption of solar panel systems by providing a financial incentive for building owners to switch to solar.

Components of Solar system

Three main types of Solar power systems:

Grid-tied solar power system: This type of system is connected to the electrical grid and uses solar panels to generate electricity, which is then fed back into the grid. This type of system does not require batteries for storage, as excess energy is sold back to the utility company.

Off-grid solar power system: This type of system is not connected to the electrical grid and relies solely on solar panels to generate electricity. This type of system requires batteries for energy storage, as it is not connected to the grid for backup power.

Hybrid solar power system: This type of system combines both grid-tied and off-grid systems, allowing for the use of both solar panels and backup power sources such as a generator. This type of system allows for more flexibility and can be useful in areas with unreliable or unstable grid power.

On-Grid Type

An on-grid solar power system is a type of solar power system that is connected to the traditional power grid. This means that the solar panels are connected to the grid through a bi-directional meter, which allows excess solar energy to be sold back to the grid. In an on-grid system, solar panels generate electricity that is used to power the home or business. Any excess solar energy is fed back into the grid and the homeowner or business owner is credited for the excess energy.

One of the main benefits of an on-grid solar power system is that it allows the user to take advantage of net metering, which allows them to sell excess electricity back to the grid at a credit to their utility bill. This can help offset the cost of the system and make it more financially viable for the user.

However, an on-grid solar power system does rely on the stability of the grid and may not be suitable for areas with unreliable power sources. It also requires a connection to the grid, which may not be possible in some remote locations.

Off-Grid Type 

An off-grid solar power system is a type of solar power system that is not connected to the traditional electrical grid. This means that the solar panels generate electricity and store it in batteries, which can then be used to power electrical appliances and devices.

Off-grid solar power systems are ideal for remote or isolated locations where the grid is not available, or in situations where the homeowner wants to become self-sufficient and produce their own electricity. They can be expensive to install initially, but they can provide significant cost savings in the long run as they do not require a connection to the grid and do not incur monthly electricity bills. They also offer the benefit of being able to operate independently of the grid, which can be useful in the event of power outages or natural disasters.

The main components of an off-grid solar power system include solar panels, a charge controller, batteries, and an inverter. The solar panels capture the energy from the sun and convert it into electricity, which is then stored in the batteries. The charge controller regulates the flow of electricity from the panels to the batteries to ensure they are charged properly. The inverter converts the stored DC electricity from the batteries into AC electricity, which is used to power appliances and devices in the home or building.

These systems require a larger initial investment but can be a cost-effective solution for those who live in areas with high energy costs or for those who want to reduce their carbon footprints.

Why On-Grid is more reliable than Off Grid

On-grid systems are advantageous because they do not require the use of a battery bank to store excess energy. This means that on-grid systems are generally less expensive and easier to maintain than off-grid systems. However, they do require a reliable connection to the grid and are not suitable for homes or businesses that are located in areas without a reliable power grid.

Hybrid Type of Solar

A hybrid solar power system combines traditional grid-tied solar power with a backup power source, such as a battery or generator. This type of system is designed to provide electricity to a home or business during periods of low solar radiation or when the PV panels are not generating enough power.

The hybrid system works by using the PV panels to generate electricity during the day, while the backup generator kicks in when the solar panels are not generating enough power or when the electricity demand is higher than the solar panels can produce. This allows for a more reliable and consistent power supply, especially during times of inclement weather or extended periods of low sunlight.

One advantage of a hybrid solar power system is that it can be easily scaled to meet the energy needs of a home or business. It can also be a more cost-effective option for those who are unable to install a full solar panel system due to roof orientation or other constraints.

Overall, a hybrid solar power system is a practical solution for those who want to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and take advantage of the benefits of solar energy, while still having a reliable backup power source.

Solar energy systems have many benefits, including:

Cost savings: Solar energy systems can significantly reduce energy costs, especially in areas with high electricity rates or when paired with net metering programs.

Environmental benefits: Solar energy systems do not produce greenhouse gases or other pollutants, making them a clean energy source.

Reliability: Solar energy systems can provide electricity during power outages, making them a reliable energy source.

Easy maintenance: Solar energy systems require minimal maintenance, with most components having a lifespan of 20-30 years.

Overall, solar energy systems are a great way for buildings to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs while also contributing to a more sustainable future.

 Many of you must have watched Elon Musk in some videos or on Twitter making a mockery of the idea of Hydrogen gas or Hydrogen cars. Elon Musk manufactures cars that are powered by electricity and it is always claimed with regards to that electric cars are highly environmentally friendly. And Ev's carbon footprint is almost negligible when compared to the carbon footprint of an IC Engine based vehicle.

But this fact is only partially true because if we talk about the country from where Elon Musk got his start, then only 20% of the total electricity of the US is produced using Renewable Resources. Electric cars are bounded with several other problems too. Even today, the charging time required by an EV is very high due to this, people have to face several problems, EV owners also suffer from range anxiety due to the extremely low energy density of lithium-ion batteries in comparison to the fuels like Petrol and Diesel. Humans still have not manufactured any practical Electric Plane and due to these complications in the battery of an EV. Many people believe that Hydrogen is the fuel of the future.

Shri Nitin Gadkari About Hydrogen

Nitin Gadkari is the current Minister of Road Transport and Highways, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in the Government of India. He has expressed support for the use of hydrogen fuel cell technology in transportation, particularly in the form of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

In a recent speech, Gadkari emphasized the potential for hydrogen fuel cell technology to play a major role in the future of transportation in India, citing its clean energy production and the potential to reduce India's dependence on imported fossil fuels. He also noted the potential for the development of a domestic hydrogen fuel cell industry in India, which could create new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth.

Delighted to launch the world's most advanced technology - developed Green Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) Toyota Mirai along with Union Minister Shri @HardeepSPuri ji, Union Minister Shri @RajKSinghIndia ji,... pic.twitter.com/teu8pm1l57

— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) March 16, 2022

Gadkari has also expressed support for the development of a hydrogen fuel infrastructure in India, including the production, distribution, and storage of hydrogen fuel. This would be necessary to support the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the country.

India is soon going to become the market leader of the whole world concerning the export of Green Hydrogen. Shri Nitin Gadkari is not the lone person with such ambitions for Green Hydrogen, but brands like Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai began their Research and Development R&D for Hydrogen fuel cell-based vehicles in the very early 2000s. Some cars are even available in their portfolio if we get specific to Toyota. Then Toyota already invested around a Billion Dollars in the Research and Development of Hydrogen Cars.

History of Hydrogen and Hydrogen Car

Toyota Mirai is the largest-selling Hydrogen fuel-based car in the whole world. Since 2014 till date, only 18,000 units of this car have been sold by Toyota. Which is a ridiculously small number. Therefore we would try to understand why successful and massive brands like Toyota are manufacturing Hydrogen based cars that are numb to the people. Why does Elon Musk think that the people thinking about Hydrogen are stupid? and we should also try to understand. To what extent Elon Musk is wrong and Shri Nitin Gadkari right. 

Hydrogen gas is an extremely flammable gas many of you might remember, how an aircraft like Hindenburg was destroyed due to this horrible gas. And many people lost their lives in this incident Hydrogen is the most abundant element in this whole universe. 70% of the mass of the whole universe is composed of only Hydrogen. But when we enter the earth here only 0.1% of the hydrogen is available in its pure form. Even after the negligible availability of pure Hydrogen. 

But Hydrogen can be extracted by various methods other than this such as from water, you must be knowing the fact that water is made up of two atoms of Hydrogen and one atom of oxygen due to this Hydrogen can be extracted from water. There are several other methods too through which hydrogen can be extracted. But we will refer to those further. But before it, we should understand

Why Hydrogen Should be used in Cars?

To understand that we should monitor Toyota because Toyota has invested a considerable amount of money to make this possible. During the early 90s, global automakers were looking for alternative energy resources which can be used as a source of energy for vehicles. Global Warming was not a hot topic back at that time and global automakers were aware of the fact that fossil fuel-based vehicles can not be extinct shortly. 

But soon came the day and that's why global automakers were preparing in advance. At that time no one was looking at Lithium-ion batteries as those are seen today. No one thought of driving cars with Lithium-ion batteries. Because Lithium-ion batteries were highly ineffective during that time no development was done for the evolution of batteries that's why Toyota decided to invest in Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology. A hydrogen Fuel Cell is used to generate electricity from hydrogen. The generated electricity is fed to the Electric Motors and the vehicles start moving.

Working of Fuel Cell in FCEV

Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) use a fuel cell to convert hydrogen gas into electricity to power the vehicle. The fuel cell consists of two electrodes, a cathode, and an anode, separated by a membrane. Hydrogen gas is supplied to the anode, where it is separated into protons and electrons. The protons pass through the membrane and combine with oxygen at the cathode to form water, while the electrons flow through an external circuit to power the vehicle.

If I try to explain to you the basic functionality of a hydrogen fuel cell in a lucid manner. Then, a hydrogen fuel cell is composed of an anode, cathode, electrolyte membrane, and a suitable catalyst. Highly pressurized Hydrogen gas is filled in the anode and oxygen gas is filled in the cathode, filled hydrogen anode which cannot cross the electrolyte membrane. Because electrolytes facilitate the passage of positive ions only. 

While hydrogen is a neutral atom consisting of 1 electron and 1 proton. To further initiate the energy production process a suitable catalyst is used. A catalyst separates the electron and proton of the Hydrogen gas And these protons flow to the cathode through the electrolyte. Electrons stay in the anode due to their negative charge. That's why the anode is connected to the cathode through a conductive wire this wire enables the passage of electrons. 

This flow of electrons through the wire is termed the electric current which drives the motor of the vehicle. The by-product obtained after this process is H2O which is water. This means Hydrogen Fuell Cell Vehicles do not generate any carbon emissions. This process looks simpler if seen like this, due to this reason the World's first Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle, FCEV was introduced in the year 1966. But this vehicle could not be used as any practical Vehicle.

Why is it tough to launch FCEV in the market?

Because it is a lot tougher than expected to drive any vehicle through hydrogen practically and therefore it took more than 20 years for a brand like Toyota to introduce its first Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle. Toyota's first Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle, Toyota Mirai was launched in the year 2014. Toyota Mirai was looked at as the most technologically advanced car when it was launched, an electric car has very few components when compared to an IC Engine car. Due to this EVs are considered less complicated. But if we look at Mirai, which is an FCEV. Then Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle is more complex than any type of vehicle. But Toyota developed this FCEV beautifully. 

Some advantages were clearly visible in Toyota's Mirai, which are absent in the Electric Vehicles:

The first one is no range anxiety Hydrogen can be filled in the tanks of any vehicle in a jiffy like any IC Engine based vehicle which is not possible in EVs.

Toyota Mirai can be used to travel up to 600 KM upon getting its tank full in one go and to further increase the travel range of the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle.

There is no need of increasing the battery cells as done in Electric Vehicles. Due to this, Hydrogen Fuel Cell vehicles stay light in weight.

Due to all these advantages present in Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles, Toyota Mirai was a big flop at the time. From the time Mirai was launched, Toyota has only sold 18000 units of this car.

If we compare the sales of Mirai with any EV model of Tesla. Then the monthly sale of any Tesla car is more than the whole career sale of the Toyota Mirai. A question must arise in your mind if HFCV Technology is so advantageous. 

Then why Hydrogen cars are getting failed?

The answer lies within the practical issues present in the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle. There are around 35,000 EV charging stations in the United Kingdom and only 15 Hydrogen Fuel cell pumps or fuelling stations are present in the whole United Kingdom the hydrogen gas available today is highly expensive. 

For instance, the cost of green hydrogen in the US Ranges between INR 400-600 per Kg, and thus the average cost of running a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle is 10 times more than an EV and even more than the average cost of running a Petrol based vehicle. This Hydrogen is so expensive because this is green hydrogen as told you earlier. The pure form of Hydrogen is almost negligible in our environment thus we need to extract the hydrogen through several methods. 

There are many processes and sources involved in the extraction of hydrogen. All the different extraction processes of hydrogen are denoted by different colors and when all the different colors are combined together. The resultant is termed a Hydrogen Rainbow. 

If we try to understand this Hydrogen Rainbow:

Black Hydrogen is generated after the burning of coal or other fossil fuels. This generates huge carbon emissions.

Grey Hydrogen is extracted from Methane gas through Steam Methane Reforming and this process also generates a lot of carbon emissions. 

Blue Hydrogen is also extracted from Methane Gas. But here 50% of the carbon emissions are trapped. The final form of Hydrogen in the Hydrogen Rainbow is Green Hydrogen. 

The Green Hydrogen extraction process doesn't produce any harmful carbon emissions. Green Hydrogen is the hydrogen extracted from water through the process of electrolysis. Electric current is passed in water in this process due to which, the atoms of Hydrogen And Oxygen separate from each other. And then this hydrogen can be used in Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles. And several other applications too. It seems very fascinating after listening. But a very big problem is also associated with this Green Hydrogen.

Why Green Hydrogen is so expensive than Fossil Fuels?

The hydrogen produced after the process of electrolysis utilizes electricity which must be generated from renewable resources like Solar Energy, Wind Energy, etc. If we use the electricity produced by coal. Then hydrogen can never become Green in this way, there could be no difference between Grey Hydrogen and Green Hydrogen. Also, Grey Hydrogen is five times cheaper than Green Hydrogen. The biggest problem with Green Hydrogen is that a very small portion of the total electricity of the whole world is generated through renewable resources. 

If we assume that all the electricity produced in the future will be generated from renewable resources still, vehicles running on Green Hydrogen have a major issue. Due to this, Battery Electric Vehicles are superior to any FCEV and the issue of Hydrogen Cars is highly inefficient.

If we use the Hydrogen produced from Renewable Resources in our vehicles then the efficiency of such Vehicles is only around 33%. If we observe the efficiency of any Battery Electric Vehicle then it is 77%. Which is even more than any ICE Engine based vehicle. 

The reason behind the low efficiency of FCEV is the usage of electricity for the production of Hydrogen itself. Then the generated hydrogen is transported in several ways And when this hydrogen gas is filled in the tanks of the vehicles. This hydrogen is again converted into electricity which consumes furthermore energy. This electricity drives the motors of any vehicle and some energy is also lost as heat in the motors, On the other hand, Electricity is directly fed into the Battery Electric Vehicles and drives the motors. Due to this reason, Hydrogen has got no respect in front of Elon Musk. But it is not at all like if Hydrogen gas is not beneficial for running vehicles then it is totally a waste element. 

Benefits of Hydrogen Fuel Cells in Commercial Vehicles!

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology is extremely beneficial in Buses, Trucks, and Ships. Hydrogen gas can be used to travel extremely long distances without wasting any time in charging your vehicle if we look at Trucks only. Since the battery pack of any truck must be huge in comparison to any car. Then the required charging time for that battery pack would also be huge. Lithium-ion batteries also make any vehicle bulkier whereas hydrogen gas can also solve this problem.

Is Hydrogen-powered Aircraft possible?

Hydrogen is going to be very useful in aircraft in the coming future. There is no surety after Electric Planes shortly. But Airbus has announced that they will introduce Hydrogen Planes by the year 2035. Hydrogen is chosen over batteries in planes due to its high energy density. These were some of the facts, Elon Musk considers hydrogen a stupid gas. But on the other side, Shri Nitin Gadkari wants to make India a global leader in the production of Green Hydrogen.

Big players like the Adani Group, Reliance, and L&T have started marching toward Green Hydrogen. Shri Nitin Gadkari wants hydrogen production through biowaste and sewage water apart from electrolysis. Here a chemical reaction would be used for the production of hydrogen gas.

Overall, it seems that Nitin Gadkari views hydrogen fuel cell technology as a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels for transportation, and is actively working to promote its development and adoption in India.

What are your thoughts about hydrogen, mention below in the comment section on the production of electricity through hydrogen?