Parker Hannifin and Vectrix Corp., a developer of zero-emission vehicle platform technologies, have unveiled a prototype of the first fuel cell/electric hybrid scooter.

Parker Hannifin and Vectrix Corp., a developer of zero emission vehicle platform technologies, have unveiled a prototype of the first fuel cell/electric hybrid scooter. A consortium of suppliers headed by Parker and Vectrix plan to commercialize the hybrid scooter's onboard 800 watt Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC) battery charging system, which is expected to extend the product's operating range and free it from the constraints of" a fixed power supply. Using methanol-based fuel also eliminates the safety and availability concerns of pressurized, high-purity gaseous hydrogen. The Parker-designed and manufactured high-torque electric motor and controller accelerate from zero to 31 mph in 3.6 seconds, a rate comparable or better than an equivalent weight gasoline-powered scooter. Other key, scooter performance characteristics include: a top speed of greater than 60 mph, a range of more than 155 miles Oil a single charge and a low center of gravity that enhances handling and cornering. The product's cost of ownership over a period of four yearn is an estimated 26 percent less than that of a 400 cc gasoline-powered scooter.