Chinese automobile titan GAC (Guangzhou Automobile Cie) has set another milestone in the world of alternative fuel vehicles with its recently unveiled E9 concept. The E9, which was revealed at GAC’s “Tech Day 2023,” is acclaimed as the world’s first hydrogen-powered hybrid car, showcasing Chinese manufacturers’ progress in the field of hydrogen.

GAC, well-established in the electric car segment, now leads the charge toward the nascent hydrogen sector. Despite this being a relatively new sphere, the commitment of industry giants like GAC, marked by the revelation of the E9 concept, is an encouraging sign of forthcoming advancements in the sector.

The GAC E9 concept utilizes a unique hybrid system that combines a 2.0-liter hydrogen combustion engine with a battery and an electric motor. The inclusion of the electric motor assists the hydrogen engine by reducing consumption during braking and deceleration, a clever energy-saving strategy that benefits from both electric and hydrogen energy sources.

GAC’s announcement about this pioneering model suggests an average consumption of less than 1.4 kg per 100 km, an impressive figure that indicates the efficiency of the hybrid powertrain. Furthermore, the E9 concept is expected to deliver a range of nearly 600 km with a full tank, which, considering the stated consumption rate, hints at an onboard capacity of approximately 8 kg of hydrogen.

This advancement in hydrogen hybrid technology by GAC is particularly significant given the ongoing global push towards decarbonization in the transportation sector. Hydrogen, as an energy carrier, emits only water when consumed in a fuel cell, making it a promising solution for sustainable mobility.

While it is unclear when the E9, or similar technology, will be available in the marketplace, the unveiling of the concept marks a key development in the broader exploration of alternative fuel vehicles. The GAC E9 MPV could serve as a blueprint for future production models, paving the way for more widespread adoption of hydrogen-powered hybrid vehicles.

As we anticipate further details about the launch timeline for this ground-breaking vehicle, it’s clear that GAC’s E9 concept is a promising step towards a cleaner, more sustainable automotive future.