The last time I had talked about the Audi A7 H-Tron was back in August 2015 so this is an update as Audi expects to start rolling out the latest iteration of this fuel cell vehicle within the next 2 years or less.
Audi is currently working on their 5th generation hydrogen fuel-cell car that will be able to offer extended range, will work at higher temperatures than before, and is here to offer you better performance. The company started working on green vehicles back in 2004 and has come a long way to offer you top quality hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. In 2006 I had to pleasure of driving the Audi A2H2 which was one of the fastest hydrogen fuel cell vehicles I’ve driven. But, let’s continue talking about the A7 H-Tron.
The all-new Audi A7 H-Tron showcases four hydrogen tanks, that has the capacity to hold about 5kg of compressed hydrogen gas. In addition, the A7 offers a 335 mile range and will be able to reach from 0 to 60mph in just 7.9 seconds. Even though the Audi A7 H-Tron looks like the original A7, apart from the emergency stop button, the interior of the H-Tron is exactly the same as the A7 that runs on gasoline or diesel.
When you pop open the hood you won’t be able to see an internal combustion engine. However, the H-Tron’s fuel stack offers enough power to send torque to both electric motors. One is located at the front of the vehicle, and the second one is located at the back. Both combines offer 170kW of power.
When you take a closer look at the fuel cell you will find 300 cells in a stack, and each one showcases a polymer membrane for efficient working. Moreover, the hydrogen flows to the anode that is able to break the hydrogen into electrons and protons. From there the protons flow through the membrane towards a cathode. There it reacts with air and helps create water. On the other hand, the electrons flow towards the power supply for the motors. Additionally, the cells are able to produce 0.6 to 0.8 volts. This simple process is the heart of the vehicle and offers it the power you need to drive a powerful vehicle.
But, wait, there’s more. As Audi decided to push things a little further and made the A7 H-Tron a plug-in hybrid vehicle. So along with the hydrogen fuel stack that powers the car, the user can also charge the 8.8Wh battery using a wall socket.
When you drive the A7 h-Tron, you will won’t be able to hear any sound, until and unless you try to hear it, as the vehicle produces almost no noise. The only sound you will hear from time to time is the hydrogen system and the electric drivetrain which is very quiet.
This 5th generation Audi A7 H-Tron has taken green vehicles to the next level, and might even be offering you a premium package. However, the company has not confirmed nor denied these rumors. This premium vehicle will offer spectacular performance even with higher temperatures, allowing a great driving experience, regardless of the location.
The current A7 e-Tron lacks to offer the same performance when driven at temperatures above 104 Fahrenheit.
We look forward to great things from Audi as they continue down the path towards commercialization of the A-7 H-Tron.