General Motors and the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) collaborated on the vehicle, which went from contract to completion in a year. (Chevrolet image) Under the power dome hood of the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 fuel cell electric vehicle. (Chevrolet image) Despite military-like front lights, the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 fuel cell electric vehicle was developed with the off-road market, not specifically the military, in mind. (Chevrolet image) The truck will be used as a U.S. Army demonstrator to evaluate on-board water production, exportable electric power and near silent operation married with extreme off-road capability. (Chevrolet image) The 2+2 interior of the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 fuel cell electric vehicle features Recaro seats. (Chevrolet image) General Motors and the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) on Monday (Oct. 3) revealed the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 fuel cell electric vehicle, a concept that marries fuel cell technology and its advantages of on-board water production, exportable electric power and near silent operation with extreme off-road capability. The Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 fuel cell electric vehicle rides on 37-inch tires and a specially modified suspension that helps the vehicle climb over and descend all manner of terrain. The Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 fuel cell electric vehicle is a conventionally driven truck powered by hydrogen that is converted to electricity through a fuel cell system. (Chevrolet image) Integrated tow hooks and winch in the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 fuel cell electric vehicle are featured for use when aggressive pulling is needed. (Chevrolet image) Inside the rear hatch is an Electric Power Takeoff unit, capable of providing 25kw of consistent electric power away from the vehicle, such as remote locations where electric power may otherwise be unavailable. (Chevrolet image) Top view of the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 fuel cell electric vehicle shows the partial camouflage wrap and power dome. (Chevrolet image) The Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 fuel cell electric vehicle uses hydrogen as a fuel to power the truck based on Chevrolet’s midsize pickup. (Chevrolet image) Chevrolet is entering the silent service.
The automaker has built a hydrogen-powered truck for the U.S. Army that generates its own electricity with an onboard fuel cell. The heavily-modified Chevrolet Colorado-based rig is powered by a 174-horsepower electric motor that can drive all four wheels while making hardly any noise and keeping a low thermal profile compared to an internal combustion engine.
Hydrogen tanks and a small battery are installed where the bed of the Colorado would normally be, along with a power-take-off unit that provides electricity for equipment in the field. Meanwhile, water emissions produced by the fuel cell’s operation can be collected and used by troops for drinking, or keeping that mean bodywork clean in the driest of regions.
With its stealthy characteristics, lifted body, 37-inch tires, and an extreme off-road suspension, the ZH2 is envisioned as more as a patrol and reconnaissance vehicle than a replacement for a general purpose vehicle like the Humvee.
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