Ebook: The World's Most Fuel Efficient Vehicle: Design and Development of Pac Car II

The goal of the PAC-Car project, a joint undertaking of ETH Zurich and ist partners, was to build a vehicle powered by a hydrogen fuel cell system that uses as little fuel as possible. PAC-Car II set a new world record in fuel efficient driving (the equivalent of 5,385 km per liter of gasoline) during the Shell Eco-marathon in Ladoux (France) on June 26, 2005. This book, addressed to graduate students, engineering professors and others interested in fuel economy contests, is the frst to summarize the issues involved when designing and constructing a vehicle for fuel economy competitions. It describes the adventure of developing the PAC-Car II and others some specifc technical advice for anyone who wants to design an ultra-lightweight land vehicle, whatever its energy source. PAC-Car was a joint project of ETH Zurich and partners from academia and industry. The goal was to build a vehicle powered by a fuel cell system that uses as little fuel as possible. PAC-Car II set a new world record in fuel efficient driving (5,385 km per liter of petrol equivalent) during the Shell Eco-marathon in Ladoux (France) on June 26, 2005. This book is the first to summarize the design and construction issues of a vehicle for fuel economy contests. It deals with the adventure of developing this world-record vehicle and provides some specific technical tips. It will help anyone who is designing an ultra lightweight land vehicle, whatever its source of energy (thermal engine, human power, solar panels), and/or those who are interested in fuel cell applications. The book addresses graduate students and teachers of engineering disciplines as well as other people interested in fuel economy contests. Content: fuel economy competitions, design phase of a fuel economy vehicle, tires, vehicle behavior, aerodynamics, vehicle body structure, wheels, front axle and steering system, powertrain, fuel cell system, driving strategy, conclusion and outlook.