Changan breaks ahead in the hydrogen internal combustion engine
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Recently, several domestic media outlets have reported that Chongqing Changan Automobile Company successfully ignited a self-developed hydrogen internal combustion engine. This marks a significant milestone in China's new energy vehicle development, as it is the first time a hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine has been publicly showcased.
In recent years, the development of new energy vehicles has remained highly popular in China, with numerous breakthroughs in electric, hybrid, and fuel cell technologies being widely covered. However, the hydrogen internal combustion engine project by Changan represents a unique and less-known endeavor. Many people were unaware that Changan was actively working on this technology.
To better understand how this engine was developed, what breakthroughs it involves, and whether it is just a prototype or ready for mass production, our reporter spoke with Dr. Zhan Yusong, Vice President of Changan’s Engineering Research Institute.
The R&D process involved a collaboration between the government, industry, and research institutions. The project started two years ago, and in September 2005, Changan and Beijing Institute of Technology jointly submitted their proposal to relevant state departments. By January 2006, it became the only hydrogen internal combustion engine project under the "863 Program" of the Ministry of Science and Technology. The project also received support from the National Science and Technology Commission, with a total investment of approximately 10 million yuan so far, combining government funding and company resources.
Changan established a dedicated team within its Engineering Research Institute, consisting of over a dozen specialists focused on hydrogen engine development. Other departments provided support in areas such as engine design, manufacturing processes, and laboratory testing. Beijing Institute of Technology also contributed a specialized R&D team led by Professor Liu Fushui. Additionally, some technology companies and component suppliers participated in the project, providing calibration, gas supply, and electronic control systems to ensure the availability of specialized parts.
One of the key technological breakthroughs in the project is the development of an advanced electronic control system. Unlike traditional engines that use liquid fuel, hydrogen combustion requires a different approach due to its gaseous nature and lack of lubricity. This necessitates improvements in various traditional technologies.
Dr. Zhan explained that the current hydrogen internal combustion engine has achieved successful ignition, with three major technological advancements: the construction of a prototype platform, the avoidance of tempering and surface combustion technology, and the development of an advanced electronic control system.
Building a virtual prototype platform was essential for verifying the engine's performance, especially in terms of gas supply, mixing, combustion, and exhaust. A physical prototype was also developed, along with subsystems like the gas supply system, hydrogen injection system, and control system, as well as modifications to the combustion chamber.
The most critical challenge lies in precisely controlling the mixture concentration of hydrogen and air. Since vehicle conditions vary constantly, the required gas concentration changes accordingly. Ensuring smooth operation under all conditions is vital, especially given hydrogen’s high reactivity and potential explosiveness. Dr. Zhan emphasized that the electronic control system is the core achievement of the project.
Importantly, these breakthroughs are based on original technologies developed independently by the project team, rather than following international trends. This shows a strong emphasis on innovation and self-reliance.
Looking ahead, Dr. Zhan outlined the path toward industrialization. While the successful ignition and initial prototypes are promising, the road to mass production remains long. Future steps include improving the control and injection systems to make them more compact and cost-effective. This process will be gradual but feasible.
Additionally, establishing comprehensive policies, safety standards, and after-sales services will be crucial before full-scale production can begin. Although this system is complex, it will evolve as the technology matures. For example, existing hybrid regulations are already improving, offering a model to follow.
Another key factor is the development of supporting infrastructure, such as hydrogen production and refueling stations. Dr. Zhan noted that achieving mass production of hydrogen internal combustion engines by 2015 depends not only on technological maturity but also on policy support, social infrastructure, and public acceptance.