U.S.-based company Revo Zero has unveiled its first car – an unusual-looking, crossover-like van called Energy. It runs on hydrogen fuel cell power, but also has a sizable electric battery array on board for more than 1,120 kilometers (700 miles) of range. Pre-orders are already open, although the launch date remains to be announced.
The Revo Zero Energy looks like a cross between an SUV and a typical minivan. It has prominent bumpers, wide fenders and LED stripes for the headlights and the taillights.
All four doors slide to open. The body has no b-pillars for easier getting in and out. Inside, these are six separate seats, a large infotainment display, a digital dash, and a dedicated touchscreen for the second-row occupants.
The powertrain is mainly designed to operate in EV mode using the provided battery as the power source. Once it reaches zero, though, the fuel cell system will kick in and provide extra power similarly to how an ICE generator works in a serial hybrid powertrain. Replenishing the hydrogen tanks will take seven minutes, the company says.
Other than that, the specifics remain to be announced. Revo Zero claims that its invention combines the principal advantages of fuel cell cars and EVs while eliminating their shortcomings. At this stage, the company is reportedly wrapping up the design stage and should soon proceed to the drive tests.