Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials, in collaboration with Hyundai Motor Company and Kia, has unveiled a groundbreaking achievement—the development of a hydrogen internal combustion engine tailored for passenger cars. This innovation marks a crucial leap forward in the pursuit of cleaner transportation solutions.
The core innovation lies in the utilization of a ‘direct injection’ method rather than the conventional ‘port injection’ approach commonly employed in hydrogen engines. The traditional ‘port injection’ method involves introducing hydrogen into the intake port, where it mixes with air before combustion. However, this process presents inherent challenges such as reduced efficiency due to limited airflow into the combustion chamber and the risk of a ‘backfire phenomenon,’ where the hydrogen-air mixture ignites outside the chamber.
In contrast, Hyundai and Kia’s research team chose the ‘direct injection’ route. This groundbreaking approach involves injecting hydrogen directly into the engine’s combustion chamber at a staggering pressure—30 times higher than atmospheric pressure. This method not only overcomes the efficiency and backfire issues but also achieves superior thermal efficiency by combining Hyundai Motor Company’s hybrid vehicle engine with a high-pressure hydrogen injection system equipped with a turbocharger to boost engine output.
The impact of this innovation on the environment and sustainability is profound. The hydrogen internal combustion engine developed by this research team significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions by a staggering 99% compared to traditional gasoline engines. Moreover, it achieves a remarkable 90% reduction in fine dust emissions, making it a compelling candidate for a cleaner and healthier future.
Furthermore, the engine’s emissions meet stringent European standards for zero-emission vehicles, underscoring its commitment to environmental responsibility. It emits less than 15 parts per million (ppm) of nitrogen oxides, a substantial reduction from conventional engines. Perhaps most impressively, this engine attains an exceptional thermal efficiency of up to 40% without requiring any post-processing devices to purify exhaust gases.
While this remarkable engine is a testament to Hyundai and Kia’s commitment to sustainability and green technology, it’s essential to note that the key component—the ‘injection device’—was sourced from an overseas parts company. This collaborative approach reflects the global effort required to drive innovation in the automotive industry and make substantial strides towards a more sustainable future.
As the world shifts its focus towards cleaner and more eco-conscious transportation, innovations like Hyundai and Kia’s hydrogen internal combustion engine are set to play a pivotal role. These engines represent not only a technological milestone but also a commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and improving air quality. With hydrogen-powered passenger cars now on the horizon, the future of mobility is looking increasingly green and promising.
