Aerodynamic Simulation, Thermal and Fuel Consumption Analysis of Hydrogen Powered Fuel Cell Vehicle

This paper presents design, analysis and development of a highly aerodynamic and a near zero emission single seater three wheeler unfrozen hawk prototype vehicle that is powered by hydrogen fuel cell. The vehicle is designed with a tadpole configuration and gullwing doors to achieve low drag and a streamlined half body. The pressure and velocity distribution with an optimal value of drag coefficient are established using computational fluid dynamic analysis. The hydrogen consumption and heat generated in the fuel cell and brushless direct current motor are analyzed for various cases. The study concluded to show a reduction in power and fuel consumption of designed prototype vehicle to give better fuel economy and overall performance.