The recently concluded CES 2016 saw several upcoming car announcements. But one of the best car revelations did not happen there. Instead, the North American International Auto Show, which opened this week, debuted the Audi H-tron Quattro concept car, a self-charging hydrogen vehicle with a range of 372 miles, which beats the number that Tesla Model S can presently manage.
The Audi hydrogen-powered car, which has three fuel tanks hidden underneath the passenger and luggage compartments, is able to produce as much as 148 horsepower, according to Auto Blog. The fuel system is distinguished from an all-electric vehicle since it uses fuel cells to store hydrogen and generate power instead of electric batteries. The technology is also found in Toyota's Mirai production car, according to CNET.
The hydrogen fuel system is complemented by a lithium-ion battery, which supplement the car's energy production with an extra 140 kw for short bursts of acceleration. This power source also recharges every time the brake is used, Engadget reported. The H-tron also boasts of a solar roof that help generate 320 watts that can contribute to an extra 620 miles annually.
The green credentials are not the only selling points for the yellow Audi H-tron. The vehicle looks like the stylish E-Tron Quattro but with a smoother hood and larger openings in the lower fascia, Auto Blog noted.
As a concept car, however, there is no assurance that the H-tron Quattro will be built. Audi promises to build three hybrid vehicles within three years and it is not confirmed whether H-tron's technology will make an appearance.
