THE NISSAN TeRRA SUV concept vehicle is an interesting power option, as it has hydrogen fuel cell technology driving three electric motors for 4×4 drive. Looking at the pictures here, it follows the quirky looks of the Qashqai and Juke but it is certainly the power option that excites, offering as it does zero emissions. Sadly, at present, it is a design concept rather than a technical exhibit so details of the proposed fuel cell/electric motor’s are not detailed. However, it does use the same electric propulsion system that is used in the Nissan LEAF, and that is a production reality, so we can but hope that this will see the light of day soon. The use of the electric motors means that the vehicle doesn’t have any axles, which allows for a flatter floor space. The punch line to the project, however, explains that the TeRRA ‘signals that Nissan is ready to mass-produce fuel cell electric vehicles whenever hydrogen becomes widely available’.
• This October saw four manufacturers, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota, bringing their concept Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to the UK as part of the European Hydrogen Road Tour to promote the technology to politicians, industry leaders and the media. More information on the European Hydrogen Road Tour can be found at: www.scandinavianhydrogen.org/h2moves/european-hydrogen-road-tour-2012
