Ford Focus FCV Hybrid

By Max Glaskin

October 2002

The hydrogen-powered FCV Hybrid saloon can be seen on the company's huge stand at the British Motor Show, but we grabbed a drive before it made its way to Birmingham to find out if the gadgetry works. And it does - but only briefly! We were first in the queue to drive the hi-tech machine, which was just as well, because after only a few miles the car fizzled and died, a victim of the British weather. Fuel cells don't like the rain, apparently.

Although the breakdown left Ford's engineers red-faced, they have plenty to be proud of. The Focus packs a real punch from a standing start because the 88bhp electric motor delivers maximum torque at zero revs. The ΂£2.5m prototype hesitates noticeably before accelerating as the computer system must decide if the fuel cells can generate enough electricity by converting the hydrogen gas through a chemical reaction in the 'engine'. If they can't, the computer tells the battery pack to give it a booster shot, and the result is a 0-30mph time which is better than a V6 Mondeo's. Handling isn't quite as impressive, though. The huge hydrogen tank in the boot, a stack of fuel cells under the front seats, a pack of batteries and an electric motor beneath the control boxes, pumps and compressors make the Hybrid a third heavier than a standard Focus. As most of that extra 400kg is amidships, it upsets the car's balance and steering feel.

To be fair, this is the only prototype, and lots of improvements are planned including making the compressors quieter. Ford also hopes to up the already impressive fuel consumption, which is equivalent to 62mpg. The current car can go only 200 miles before it needs a refill, which takes up to 15 minutes.

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