Interview with Monka Kentzler
about the HYFLEET: CUTE Project
about the HYFLEET: CUTE Project
Monika Kentzler works in the Daimler Fuel Cell Project Center. At the same time, the engineer coordinates the EU HyFLEET:CUTE project, which is scheduled to run from 2006 to 2009. As part of this project, the testing of 33 Citaro fuel cell buses in continuous operation is being extended and the next generation of fuel cell buses is being developed.
The hydrogen supply is considered to be the Achilles' heel of fuel cell drives. What is HyFLEET:CUTE doing to improve the current infrastructural inadequacies?
As part of HyFLEET:CUTE, ten filling stations are being operated to test different technologies. The filling station suppliers are using the experience gained to further develop the components involved.
Which sources will provide us with hydrogen in the future?
That will depend on the location of the filling station, the resources available there, and the corresponding raw materials/energy costs. In the near future, there will be more than one source of hydrogen. In fact, the variety of energy sources for hydrogen is one of its advantages.
How is the general public reacting to the introduction of fuel cell technology?
The feedback is very positive. In Hamburg, for example, many passengers let the diesel bus drive by so that they could travel in the fuel cell bus. Naturally, a new technology requires some explanation. The challenge now is to remove any reservations consumers may have and to get people to realize that hydrogen is a safe fuel.
Fuel cell drives are being developed for passenger cars and buses. Are there synergy effects that can be exploited?
This is an important issue, especially regarding the development of the next generation of drives. The next-generation fuel cell bus will therefore be equipped with two fuel cell systems that are used in the B-Class. The regular service of these buses, which spans more than ten hours daily, can provide additional valuable experience for the continued development of these fuel cell components.
