Autocars: Apr 3, 2009

Friday, April 3, 2009

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster: A symbiosis of high-tech and tradition

The theme of "sustainable mobility" is at Mercedes-Benz is an integral part of vocational training. So dedicated professionals in a cross-project, the apprentices of Daimler AG in Sindelfingen Mercedes factory and built a roadster with a fuel cell propulsion. Name: F-Cell Roadster.
The Mercedes-Benz F-Cell roadster combines the latest technologies with the history of the automobile. In line with the Benz patent motorcar from 1886 is the vehicle with large wheels spokes. Moreover, the F-Cell Roadster style elements from various eras vehicle. These include for example the carbon seat shells with handmade leather as well as the striking, modeled on the Formula-1 racing cars designed front fiberglass.
The vehicle will be driven by drive-by-wire technology - the traditional steering wheel will be replaced by a joystick. For the drive provided by the zero-emission fuel cell system in the rear. With an output of 1.2 kW / hp 1.63 achieved the F-Cell Roadster, a maximum speed of 25 km / h and provides a range of up to 350 kilometers.
The two occupants enjoy the pure "wind". Before falling in too daring journey protect fold system as a replacement for doors. Looking at the photos, you must be careful however, not with his feet in the spokes of the front wheels to land. But that weighs the true lightweight, like a modern version of a mobile carriage seems, only 350 kilograms.
Approximately one year worked on a total of 150 trainees and Dual students in the design, development, assembly and completion of the F-Cell roadster. They were young in the fields of "motor vehicle mechatronics", "Model", "electronics", "coating technology", "Manufacturing Mechanics" and "product design" and "vehicle interior" part. The primary objective of the project was to investigate the issue of alternative drives in the training practical to integrate.