Audi to test its fuel cell vehicles in rally races

The transportation industry is one of hydrogen fuel’s most staunch advocates.

Many big name automakers are making vehicles that make use of hydrogen fuel cells. Toyota, Honda, Mercedez-Benz and Daimler are among those releasing these vehicles in 2015. As fuel cells gain prominence, more car makers are unveiling plans for their own hydrogen powered vehicles. Audi is the latest to join the ranks of fuel cell supporters.

The German automaker announced their plans to release a hydrogen powered car after entering the 11th Michelin Challenge Bibendum. The event is designed to explore the challenges and solutions for sustainable energy in terms of transportation. Audi, adhering to its audacious confidence, has entered five vehicles that use alternative energy into the challenge.

The vehicles will be put to the test in a series of rally races and test drives.

The Audi Q5 is the leader of the pack – the car manufacturer has implemented some of the latest fuel cell technologies into the vehicle. The fuel cell used in the Q5 has a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM), replacing the traditional platinum catalyst. The PEM catalyst allows the fuel cell to produce as much electricity as a conventional catalyst but significantly reduces the cost of the fuel cell. The Q5 will take part in a long-distance rally competition, testing the fuel cell’s longevity. Audi’s other vehicles taking part in the challenges are the A3 TCNG, powered by natural gas, and the A8, featuring a 3.0 TDI power system.