Shanghai (ZXZC)- GAC Group announced on Sept. 9 its first self-developed hydrogen engine was successfully ignited a few days ago, indicating that the company has ushered in the “zero-emission” era for engines.

GAC Group's first hydrogen engine being ignited; photo credit: GAC Group

The new hydrogen engine is developed on GAC Group's fourth-generation engine platform. Its thermal efficiency is expected to exceed 44%, hitting a leading level in China, and theoretically achieve “zero emission”, said the automaker.

In the future, GAC R&D Center will continue working on the thermodynamic calibration and machinery development to equip complete vehicles with hydrogen engines.

GAC Group's first hydrogen engine; photo credit: GAC Group

Seizing the core technologies related to hydrogen-dedicated engine, GAC R&D Center has made many innovation achievements. For instance, the newly-developed combustor can help improve the mixture uniformity of hydrogen and air; the new hydrogen supply system is able to enhance power density and lower the risk of leaking hydrogen; the improvements of piston, piston ring, and connecting rod are conducive to optimizing the heat dissipation for cylinder head and cylinder block; the hydrogen-dedicated engine management system is developed for stable running and superior power output.

Meanwhile, GAC Group will boost the deployment of the industrial chain integrating hydrogen production, storage, and refueling. To be specific, it will utilize renewable energy sources like wind power, light and hydropower to produce and lift the proportion of “green” hydrogen. Besides, the company will strive to enhance the safety and mass ratio of hydrogen storage.

Moreover, GAC Group will partner with providers of hydrogen filling and transportation services to promote the development of the full hydrogen industrial chain.