Should you convert your diesel engine to hydrogen?

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In the constantly expanding realm of electric cars, aiming to counter the production of diesel cars, the advantages of hydrogen engine conversion often go unnoticed.

It presents a viable choice for those seeking emission reduction without the need for an entirely new vehicle. In contrast to HHO (oxyhydrogen system), which aims to enhance fuel efficiency by purportedly improving the combustion process but lacks substantial third-party performance data, converting a diesel engine to hydrogen can significantly decrease harmful emissions.

Disclaimer: This article is purely informational. Any attempt at conversion should be approached cautiously and only undertaken by a qualified expert.

Understanding Hydrogen Cars:

A hydrogen car relies on a hydrogen fuel cell or hydrogen internal combustion engine as its primary source of motive power. Despite hopes in the early 2010s that hydrogen would emerge as a viable alternative to diesel, the reality has been different. Challenges include the cost of installing hydrogen pumps at petrol stations and the high production expenses associated with hydrogen cars, resulting in limited pump availability and a small selection of vehicles.

Utilising a Hydrogen Car Kit:

Different from hydrogen-powered engines, a hydrogen car kit is a third-party device attached to various engine components. Installation can be done by a mechanic or through a self-guided process, though caution is advised due to the hazardous nature of hydrogen.

Installation Steps for a Hydrogen Car Kit:

  1. Install hose barb connectors to adapt tubing to the HHO generator.
  2. Connect tubing connectors to the HHO.
  3. Attach tubing to the HHO connectors, positioning the kit between the grill and radiator for optimal airflow.
  4. Connect the upper HHO hose to the upper reservoir and the lower HHO hose to the reservoir.
  5. Connect the reservoir to the bubbler and then link the bubbler to the engine intake.

For a visual guide, refer to this YouTube video.

How Hydrogen Car Kits Operate: Primarily used to enhance fuel economy, hydrogen car kits, specifically Oxyhydrogen (HHO) generators, draw power from the car’s battery or alternator. They generate oxyhydrogen gas through a process involving electrodes, water, and an electrolyte. This gas is introduced into the engine’s intake, purportedly lowering the combustion temperature and improving overall efficiency.

Evaluating Hydrogen Car Kits: Claims of significant improvements in MPG, up to 35%, are often unfounded. Moreover, since these kits are attachments to diesel engines, the potential emission reduction benefits of using hydrogen are not realized.

Considerations for Hydrogen Car Modifications: While some may suggest hydrogen conversion kits to enhance MPG in the UK, this assertion is often disproven. Instead, replacing a diesel or petrol engine with a hydrogen engine is a more effective approach. However, such a modification requires the expertise of a qualified professional.

Two Types of Hydrogen Engine Car Modifications:

  1. Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine: A more economical option that replicates the processes of a regular internal combustion engine (ICE) using hydrogen.
  2. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Engine: Utilizes ions to generate charges, deriving electrons from hydrogen molecules to create the necessary electricity for vehicle movement. While more expensive, these engines boast extended lifespans.

Refuelling a Hydrogen Car After Conversion:

One of the primary advantages of a hydrogen engine car is the refueling process, akin to that of a diesel or petrol vehicle. Though hydrogen pumps are not as widespread as EV charging stations, the refueling process is quick and efficient.

Comparison with Electric Vehicles (EVs):

While hydrogen engine cars offer an alternative, electric cars remain superior due to their ease of transport after fuel generation. The process of producing pure hydrogen for fuel is less energy-efficient, involving steps that reduce its environmental sustainability compared to electric cars.

Assington Autos Services:

For those considering a new hydrogen car and wishing to part with their old vehicle, Assington Autos offers a scrapping service for any car, including non-functional ones. The service ensures quick payment for your scrapped vehicle, facilitating the transition to a hydrogen car or any other vehicle.

Visit Assington Autos for more details or call 01787 210 519 for assistance.