RE: Time-line, reality check.....3 Dec 2019 20:25
For all the Eastenders fans out there.
Hydrogen + Oxygen = Electricity + Water Vapor
https://www.hydrogenics.com/technology-resources/hydrogen-technology/fuel-cells/
First, there has not been a single case of an FCEV accident as a result of leaking hydrogen. Hydrogen is a gas 14 times lighter than the atmosphere, so it immediately vaporizes into the air if there is a leak. Even in the case of a vehicle fire, the chances of leaked hydrogen combusting is virtually nonexistent.
In addition, there are multiple real-time sensors that detect any leakage on the fuel tank, feed system, and the fuel cell stacks. If a hydrogen leak is detected, either during standard operation or in an external impact that damages the feed system, the driver’s dashboard display puts up a warning. The safety system may even choke the hydrogen fuel tank valve, preventing mass ejection of hydrogen from the tank, which may lead to other hazards.
If a fire causes the temperature around the hydrogen fuel tank to elevate to excessive levels, the detection system force-expels the hydrogen from the tank into the atmosphere. Due to these redundant safety measures, the tanks will not explode; even if the vehicle undergoes complete incineration. The tank itself is covered in a fire-proof coating. In terms of vehicle fires, leaks, and explosions, HCEVs are measurably safer than gasoline combustion vehicles.