Morgan LIFECar prepares Coupe fuel cell for Geneva

Morgan LIFECar ditches batteries for the ultra capacitors.

When it comes to energy efficiency, the boutique carmakers, we have seen a number of interesting concept (and future production) vehicles dangled in front of our eyes. Fisker turned heads with its exotic appearance Premium Sports Sedan Hybrid (HPSS). Connaught and turned some heads with its coupe-DH type, which includes a hybrid engine.

Now it is the turn of Morgan to jump in the fray with its hybrid LIFECar concept of hydrogen fuel cells. The car will be displayed at the Geneva Auto Show and puts a different twist on the long tradition Morgan engine.

The LIFECar has a hydrogen storage tank that feeds four hydrogen fuel cell PEM fuel cell. According to Morgan, QinetiQ manufacture fuel cell operates at 45% efficiency and generates 22kW of electricity.

Power is routed to four electric motors or generators - one for each wheel. Electric motors are used 92-94% are efficient and able to take advantage of regenerative braking.

Curiously, the concept LIFECar not make use of the lithium-ion battery which is used in most of the new hybrids. Instead, the vehicle used ultra capacitors that can transfer up to 1000 amps back and forth when needed.

Morgan said that with their advanced, LIFECar can reach 62 mph in less than seven seconds and reach a top speed of around 85 mph. The LIFECar will have a practice field of 250 miles and has a grade equivalent fuel economy of 150 MPG.