Ford is launching an attempt on the land-speed record for hydrogen fuel cell-powered cars with a modified version of its Fusion Hydrogen 999 model.

In conjunction with students from the Ohio State University, Ford has adapted its Fusion saloon vehicle for an attempt on the land-speed record for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) fuel cell cars - a category which covers cars which are substantially based on production line models.

The students have adapted the engine to include two fuel cells that power electric motors giving the vehicle the equivalent of 770 bhp.

Lead engineer Matt Zuehlk said: "We have made some modifications to the body to make it more aerodynamic. The 999 is much lower to the ground. There are no mirrors on the vehicle, and the traditional grille in the front that lets air into the radiator is not there because we don't have a radiator onboard."

The record attempt is set to take place next month on Bonneville Sand Flats in Utah.

Meanwhile, Ford has also revealed that it is planning to build a hydrogen-fuelled model of its V10 Triton truck engine, to be fitted initially to be E-450 bus.

Sources:

Ford bids to set new FC-powered car land-speed record, 16/07/07 http://www.fuelcelltoday.com/FuelCellToday/IndustryInformation/IndustryInformationExternal/NewsDisplayArticle/0,1602,9435,00.html

Ford Motor Company aims for world land speed record, 11/07/07 http://www.prdomain.com/companies/F/FordMotor/newsreleases/200771242943.htm

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