Hydrogen Hybrid Hijinks
Mazda, which has been absent from the hybrid game, will show off two hybrids at the 2006 North American International Auto Show staring on January 8. The MAZDA5 Hydrogen Hybrid concept car is really a “tribrid.” It has a hydrogen rotary engine with dual-fuel (hydrogen and gasoline) capability as well as a hybrid-electric drive system.
From the information available, it looks like the Hydrogen Hybrid uses hydrogen combustion and not a fuel cell for power. For me it would make more sense to use a fuel cell which could pass electricity to the same electric drive system as the battery pack instead of having a dual ICE system. I haven’t heard much lately about advances in hydrogen combustion engines, which may become popular if fuel cells can’t be manufactured with the requisite affordability and cold-weather reliability.
Mazda is also showing off the Tribute Hybrid sport utility vehicle, a full hybrid that can go up to 25 mph on electric power alone. The Tribute, which is based on the Ford Escape, is a 2007 model year vehicle.
Last but not least, Mazda will be featuring the Kabura Concept vehicle that has asymetrical seat arrangement. The right front passenger seat is closer up than the driver’s side, giving more room to the rear passenger.