At the 2016 London Motor Show, Wales-based eco-car manufacturer Riversimple debuted its signature hydrogen-powered car, the two-seat Rasa, which features fiberglass body panels and a carbon fiber composite chassis that only weighs 40kg (approx. 88 lbs). In total, the car only weighs 580kg (approx. 1279 lbs) – about half the weight of a modern day “supermini” car.
The hydrogen passes through a Proton Exchange Membrane in the fuel cell where it combines with oxygen to form water and electricity. The near-zero-emission Rasa is then powered by four electric motors – one for each wheel. These motors are small, lightweight and give the car 4 wheel drive. A low-powered hydrogen fuel cell system produces 8.5kW, giving the car a range of 300 miles on a full tank. Although it can only reach a maximum speed of 60 mph, it can go from 0-60 mph in ten seconds.
Back in February, Riversimple unveiled the working prototype of the Rasa, after 15 years in production. Their first version was known as the Riversimple Urban Car – which was also designed with composites. It was designed by renowned car designer Chris Reitz, who styled the new Fiat 500.
