TU Delft Students Create High-Efficiency Hydrogen Car Approved for Public Roads and World Record Attempt

6 months ago 1476

A group of students from TU Delft is currently working on a cutting-edge hydrogen car that needs to pass inspections in order to be driven on public roads. The students unveiled the innovative design of the Eco-Runner XIV during a presentation on Wednesday evening. Each year, a team of 25 students from TU Delft dedicates their efforts to creating a hydrogen-powered car that maximizes efficiency. 

However, this is the first time that the design has been able to meet the legal requirements for road use, the team announced at the design presentation event. According to TU Delft, the Eco-Runner XIV is the most efficient hydrogen car to receive approval for public roads. This year, the students had to consider the requirements set by the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) for the first time during the design process.

In order for the vehicle to be allowed on public roads, it must meet the criteria for the L7E-A2 vehicle class. The hydrogen car must also satisfy the 1301 standards established by the RDW, which includes implementing additional safety features. This year, the car will include mirrors, larger windows, more lights, and a license plate. Despite these additions, the vehicle maintains a distinctive design that is specifically optimized for minimal air resistance.

The students anticipate that the car will be finished by May 8. The completed car will be unveiled at a special event. In June, the Eco-Runner team plans to attempt a world record with the vehicle. The students aim to travel a distance of 2056 kilometers on just 1.45kg of hydrogen, which is the maximum capacity of the tank. This challenge will take place along the route of the Elfstedentocht, a famous skating tour in the Netherlands.