Boeing Prepares Fuel Cell Demonstrator Airplane for Ground and Flight Testing
MADRID, March 27, 2007 -- In an effort to develop environmentally progressive technologies for aerospace applications, Boeing [NYSE: BA] researchers and industry partners throughout Europe plan to conduct experimental flight tests in 2007 of a manned airplane powered only by a fuel cell and lightweight batteries.
The Boeing Fuel Cell Demonstrator Airplane uses a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell/lithium-ion battery hybrid system to power an electric motor, which is coupled to a conventional propeller. The fuel cell provides all power for the cruise phase of flight.
During takeoff and climb, the flight segment that requires the most power, the system draws on lightweight lithium-ion batteries. (Boeing graphic)
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Photo Credit: Boeing Illustration
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