Green power on wheels: Hybrid engines fueled by sunlight and saltwater
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study assesses the feasibility of a hybrid vehicle powered by solar energy, hydrogen fuel cells, and an internal combustion engine, integrating a chlor-alkali electrolyzer with a gas-liquid absorption system. Tested in Ciudad Real under extreme summer conditions (up to 38.6 °C), the setup included a hybrid electric (80 W)/combustion (2.5 cc) engine, 48 cm 2 electrolyzer, 12 W fuel cell, four PV panels (10 W/240 cm 2 × 2, 3.5 W/120 cm 2 × 2), and a 1.0 L hydrogen tank. Charging used solar and grid electricity (5.83–72.23 Wh). Electrolyzer pressurization took 1–6 h, with chlorine/hydrogen evolution confirmed. Fast grid charging peaked at 132.7 mmol OH − . Five 30-min driving sessions showed energy use from 1.8 Wh (solar) to 13 Wh (combustion). Efficiency reached 6 % coulombic, 13 % energy. CO 2 capture retained 35 mmol highlighting the hybrid's potential for carbon reduction. • Hybrid engine powered by sunlight, hydrogen fuel cells, and saltwater electrolyzer. • Hydrogen charging tested via solar/grid power (5.83–72.23 Wh input range). • Electrolyzer pressurized tank in 1–6 h under fast/slow grid charging modes. • Vehicle setup: 80 W electric, 2.5 cc combustion, 12 W fuel cell, 4 PV panels. • CO 2 capture retained 35 mmol; electrolyzer–fuel cell loop reached 13 % energy, 6 % coulombic efficiency.
Authors: Iñaki Requena-Leal, Miguel García-López, Justo Lobato, Manuel A. Rodrigo
Institution: University of Castilla-La Mancha
Language: English
Subfield: Automotive Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,730
OpenAlex ID: W4415423682