WAE launches a hydrogen platform for sports cars

WAE Technologies* is launching an electric architecture with an ultra-high performance fuel cell. Called the EVRh, it develops 550 kW and has some promising figures to show for it.

Unveiled at the CENEX Low Carbon Vehicle show in the UK, the WAE Technologies hydrogen platform is derived from what it has already been offering in electric mode for the past year. In addition to a state-of-the-art battery capable of discharging 430 kW of power, these engineering specialists have incorporated a 120 kW hydrogen fuel cell. This gives the EVRh a total combined power of 550 kW. The aim is to target start-ups or manufacturers who want to launch a hydrogen-powered GT.

Higher performance than Tesla

The EVRh platform enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 2.5 seconds. A figure facilitated by its weight (less than 1,900 kg). It also boasts a range of up to 600 km.

WAE has announced that it has worked with partners on the H2 fuel cell system. Featuring a lightweight composite structure, the hydrogen tank and battery system are located in the middle of the vehicle, optimising the centre of gravity. The platform’s design flexibility allows manufacturers to create a wide range of configurations, from a track-only vehicle for which the power-to-weight ratio is maximised, to open-top Targa and fixed-top GT road models. The car can also be fitted with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

It is estimated that the lap time at the Nürburgring (Germany) is less than 7 minutes and 20 seconds. That would be better than the record set by Tesla with a Model S Plaid (and since beaten by Rimac).

*The former Williams Advanced Engineering entity (from the eponymous F1 team), acquired in 2022 by the Fortescue group.

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Article written by Laurent Meillaud and translated by Logan King