The new MissionH24 hydrogen prototype

MissionH24, a project in collaboration between the Automobile Club de l’Ouest and H24Project, has unveiled a brand new hydrogen electric prototype.

This entirely new, more aggressively styled hydrogen electric prototype has very different ambitions. After introducing hydrogen on the track, MissionH24 now introduces hydrogen into racing, for a zero CO2 emission race. 

Le Mans Goal

The first two prototypes, LMPH2G and H24, laid the foundation for MissionH24’s vision of tomorrow’s motorsport. Hydrogen fuel cells, electric motors, tanks, batteries, tires, aerodynamics, chassis… All are designed for optimal performance. Zero emissions. A pioneering industrial challenge.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell

The new prototype from the MissionH24 program features a Symbio hydrogen fuel cell system, utilizing a next-generation multi-stack technology. The hydrogen fuel cell consists of plates and membranes where an electrochemical reaction produces electricity, heat, and water. The maximum net power output is 300 kW. The gain is estimated at +50% compared to the system used in the H24.

Plastic Omnium, a partner of the ACO for the supply of tanks for hydrogen racing cars, developed storage systems and contributed to their development and integration into the vehicle.

There are two tanks, each storing 7.8 kg (3.9 x2) of hydrogen at 700 bar, with a total weight of approximately 100 kg. They were developed following the most advanced engineering standards, with optimized composite materials to reduce weight and improve the weight-to-performance ratio without compromising safety. The targeted race autonomy is 25 to 30 minutes.

From Hydrogen to Electric Propulsion

A single high-performance electric motor drives the rear wheels, compared to 2 motors currently in the H24. A top speed of 320 km/h is announced.

• The power density exceeds 20 kW/kg, which is better than an F1 MGU-K, around 16 kW/kg
• Target maximum weight 30 kg (vs 48 kg currently in H24)
• Maximum power 650 kW or 872 horsepower
• Compact gear shift and LSD differential, facilitating integration and high efficiency
• A single gear ratio thanks to the wide operating range of the electric motor

The chassis developed by ADESS features an LMP-type structure. The cooling system has been optimized. Inside the cockpit, the narrower structure offers a more central position for the driver to reduce weight, leaving space on the sides for aerodynamic and cooling considerations, and better integrating the Power Unit components. The targeted weight is 1300 kg compared to 1450 kg for the H24.

ALSO READ > MissionH24 on track at GP Explorer