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Global Concepts (Part 2)
Daihatsu Move EVs
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Daihatsu showed two alternative fuel concepts at the 1999 Tokyo Motor Show that included a methanol-reformer-equipped fuel-cell vehicle called Move EV-FC. The running prototype's reformer requires about 1 h to start pumping hydrogen. The total system is housed within a tall mini box, leaving four seats as well as some luggage-carrying capacity atop the fuel-cell stacks. The polyelectrolyte fuel cell is rated at 16 kW (21 hp), and supplies electricity to a 32-kW (43-hp) permanent magnet, sychronous motor that drives the front wheels via a CVT. A secondary metal-hydride storage battery is used. The Move EV-HII is a gasoline/electric hybrid vehicle that begins and runs at low speeds with an 18-kW (24-hp) motor providing propulsion. Its 0.66-L three-cylinder engine comes to life during mid- and high-speed operation. The motor adds to the engine's output for acceleration. The vehicle's body is fully aluminized with an aluminum inner structure, offsetting the hybrid system's added mass. Mass is held to 780 kg (1720 lb) to allow 37-km/L (87.5-mpg) fuel economy-easily qualifying as a three-liter car. And the electrical drive/assistance does not move the Move EV-HII out of the light vehicle classification, which retains certain benefits.
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