Technology of Tigergen I

The students on the Mizzou Hydrogen Car Team are committed to developing technology for the vehicles of the future. Tigergen II is the University of Missouri's second generation hydrogen fuel cell car. It is designed to compete in the 2010 Shell Eco-marathon UrbanConcept Challenge. This is an efficiency race that simulates actual driving conditions. Vehicles are required to perform stop-and-go driving, have a luggage compartment, and fulfill other constraints that make the vehicle similar in function to a typical automobile.

Body and Chassis

One method of increasing a vehicle's efficiency is to reduce its weight. The body and chassis of Tigergen II will be integrated as one load bearing system in a monocoque design. This construction technique will save weight without compromising the structural integrity of the vehicle. To further reduce weight, Tigergen II's monocoque structure will be comprised of a combination of carbon fiber and Nomex. These advanced materials have an exceptional strength to weight ratio and are used heavily in the aerospace industry.

Aerodynamics

The minimization of aerodynamic drag is necessary to maximize an automobile's efficiency. Conventional vehicles expend over 85% of their energy overcoming wind resistance. Tigergen's aerodynamics design group has overcome the challenge of creating an exceptionally efficient design while still maintaining compliance with race regulations and allowing enough space for the fuel system components, luggage space, and driver.

Fuel Cell

Tigergen II is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. Tigergen II uses a Nexa Ballard hydrogen fuel cell to convert energy from hydrogen gas into electricity at an output power of 1.2 kW. The electricity produced by the fuel cell is then used to power the vehicle's electric motor.

Ergonomics

Engineering students tested a variety of seat angles to determine the most comfortable angle that still allows the car to have a lowest profile allowed by race regulations. The result: Tigergen II will have a more upright driver seat than Tigergen I, allowing the driver greater comfort and road visibility. Tigergen II will also have adjustable foot pedals to aid in reducing driver fatigue during long efficiency tests.

Safety

Safety is a priority in the design of Tigergen II. The driver will be secured with a five-point racing safety harness. The cockpit of Tigergen II will be equipped with a fire extinguisher and will be separated from all components of the fuel system by a fire resistant bulkhead.