2011 Audi Q5 HFC (Hybrid Fuel Cell)

With the increasing effects of global warming on our environments, no one doubts that the future of the automotive industry lies on the advancements made by manufacturers in alternative energy technology. Be it electric vehicle, or hybrid, or even fuel-cell power, the trend is increasingly shifting to environmentally-friendly alternative energy as means of powering cars and other varieties of automobiles. The German automaker, Audi, recently presented a fascinating SUV (sports utility vehicle) known as the Audi Q5 HFC at the 11^thMichelin Challenge Bibendum in Berlin.

Audi Q5 HFC

The 2011 Audi Q5 HFC (Hybrid Fuel Cell) is an intriguing concept vehicle specifically designed to reshape the landscape of Audi’s direction in manufacturing future cars. It was rolled out to test the potential and probability of utilizing the power of fuel cells as an alternative drivetrain. We will soon see how this technical study of the SUV concept guise will determine the feasibility of using fuel cells to power our vehicles on the road.

Audi Q5 HFC Rear View

In this 2011 Audi Q5 Hybrid Fuel Cell configuration, the sports utility vehicle incorporates a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell that generates 96 KW, which is approximately 133 hp and is linked to a lithium-ion battery that is packaged with an energy content of 1.3 KWh. The combination of all of them gives birth to a drivetrain that is powered by two electric motors. The electric motors generate an integrated peak output of approximately 127 hp and 310 lb/ft of torque, with an electronically-limited top speed of 166 kilometers per hour.

Audi Q5 HFC Front View

In spite of being a concept vehicle, the hybrid chassis of the Audi Q5 HFC gives a very clear indication that a production version will soon follow in its footsteps. Surely, this is not a question of “if”, but “when” will it happen. Well, the way it is at the moment, it’s up to anyone’s guess, because only Audi can correctly answer that question! But what we’re certain about is that this model will not be the last to come in the company’s quest to innovate the advancement of alternative drivetrains.

Audi Q5 HFC Side View

Apart from the hybrid drivetrain of the Q5 HFC, Audi Concept is yet to get more details regarding the materials used for designing the body and the interior. When we tried to reach Audi on the phone, we were told that the company’s spokesperson wasn’t available for an interview. However, they promised to send us the specs as soon as possible. We will let you know when that happens.