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Newsletter n° 16/2009 - April 19 - 25, 2009
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Summary
- Agreement reached on common plug for electric cars
- Ford's accelerated battery research drives development of vehicle electrification plans
- GM and SAIC Collaborate on Fuel Cell Vehicles
- Chrysler Plans, Names First Electric Car
- A123 to make batteries for Chrysler electric cars
- Two Ford vehicles make KBB's top 10 green cars list
- US Department of Energy Names Funding Recipients
- Mitsubishi Fuso Launches Enhanced Canter Eco Hybrid Light-Duty Truck in Japan
- Ford's Iosis Max showcases cutting edge design and commitment to sustainability
- Ford reveals Britain's "greenest" small van: Fiesta Van Econetic
- Volvo C30, S40 and V50 DRIVe gain extra attitude with R-Design
- Electric car that pumps energy back into grid
- Iconic Ford Transit "goes green" with new Econetic model
- Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Group Exhibit - Day 1 - Hannover Fair
- Day 2 Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Group Exhibit
- Day 3 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Group Exhibit
- Ford Team aims to drive 2010 Fusion Hybrid 1.000 miles on a single tank
- UK Ministers Praise Intelligent Energy
- Mercedes-Benz at Auto China 2009. "Green luxury" redefined - most economical and environmentally-sustainable S-Class of all time
- Telecoms Carrier Gets Fuel Cell Grant
- Bac2 announces all-moulded bipolar plates for high temperature PEM fuel cells
- Green environment for media at G8 climate talks
- EVS 24
Videos
- Electric Motor News Issue n° 8 - 2009
- Motor News Issue n° 8 - 2009
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AFP/Getty Images/File - An electric cable is attached to the side of a car
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Ford's accelerated battery research drives development of vehicle electrification plans
Source: Ford Motor Company
Summary:
Ford is working with battery suppliers and university researchers to develop lithium-ion battery systems that are more efficient than the nickel-based batteries used in current hybrids
Ford will use Li-ion battery systems to power its future battery electric, hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to be introduced in the 2010-2012 time period
Ford is working with utility companies nationwide to road-test its Li-ion-powered Escape Plug-in Electric Hybrid Electric (PHEV) research vehicles
Context / Background
One of the hurdles in the race to develop automotive Li-ion battery systems for high volume hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicle programs is improving the technology's durability. Ford's advanced battery researchers are working with battery suppliers, utility companies and top-tier academic researchers to develop, test and validate high-powered battery systems that are durable enough to last the lifetime of a vehicle.
Quotes:
"Ford is strongly positioned to accelerate its electric vehicle strategy this year thanks to the significant research we've already completed. Our collaborative work with suppliers and partners will help us be one of the first automakers to bring the next generation of personal transportation to market."
- Susan Cischke,
Group Vice President, Ford Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering
"Our PHEV fleet is a direct result of our Li-ion research, and the data mined from these field tests will provide crucial information as we make advances in battery technology."
- Ted Miller,
Manager, Ford Energy Storage Strategy and Research
"The efforts of the [Ford] team to reduce the cost and mass of Li-ion systems have been important to the research community at large. Their efforts are yielding improved Li-ion systems, and more knowledgeable workers."
-Ann Marie Sastry,
Professor of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan's Energy Systems Engineering Program
Details:
Ford's advanced battery researchers will present recent findings at SAE International's 2009 World Congress April 20-23. Researchers say:
Li-ion battery systems will be 5 percent more energy efficient than the nickel-metal hydride batteries used in today's hybrid electric vehicles.
Li-ion would be less costly than NiMH in large volumes - approximately 30 percent less expensive at an annual volume of 3 million hybrids.
The Battery
The Li-ion battery packs that Ford will use in its hybrids and electric vehicles, are 25 to 30 percent smaller and 50 percent lighter than NiMH batteries. That makes them easier to package in a vehicle. Unlike NiMH batteries, Li-ion can be tuned to increase power to boost acceleration, or to increase energy to extend driving distance.
Ford will use Li-ion battery systems to power:
a pure battery electric (BEV) Transit Connect commercial van in 2010
a BEV passenger car developed jointly with Magna International by 2011
a Plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) and next-generation hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) by 2012
Unique Li-ion systems are in development for each type of vehicle, because the drive cycles of BEVs, HEVs and PHEVs have different types of battery storage and usage requirements.
The Challenge
The Li-ion battery needed for automotive use is expected to handle a multitude of vehicle operations under extremely hot and cold conditions, making thermal and safety management much more complex than that needed for batteries in consumer electronics, such as laptops.
Testing
Ford is accelerating its research, development and testing of advanced Li-ion battery technology, thanks, in part, to a $55 million tax credit incentive from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Ford has engaged researchers at the University of Michigan and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
to conduct digital simulation tests, collecting degradation data that Ford and its battery suppliers have used to improve Li-ion performance. In addition, Ford has entered into research partnerships with eight regional electrical utility companies to conduct real-world tests on Li-ion-powered Ford Escape PHEVs.
These vehicles:
Use a common household current (120 volts) for charging, with a full charge of the battery completed within six to eight hours
Can achieve up to 120 mpg when driven on surface streets for the first 30 miles following a full charge
Operate in two modes, electric drive and blended electric-engine drive
Run as a fuel-efficient standard Ford Escape Hybrid one the charge in the battery as been depleted
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US Department of Energy
Names Funding Recipients
Source: Fuel Cell Today
April 22, 2009. Following last week's announcement that the US Department of Energy (DOE) is to invest $41.9 million of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding for 13 fuel cell projects, a full state-by-state listing of the awards is given below.
Last week's announcement also contained details of approximately $72.4 million in cost-share funding from industry participants. This cost share demonstrates private sector commitment to developing and deploying fuel cell technology.
Arkansas. FedEx Freight East (Harrison, AR)
This project will deploy 35 fuel cell systems as battery replacements for a complete fleet of electric lift trucks at FedEx's existing service center in Springfield, Missouri. Success at this service center will lead to further fleet conversions at some or all of FedEx's other 470 service centers. $1.3 millio California
Jadoo Power (Folsom, CA)
Jadoo, together with Acumentrics Corporation, NASCAR Media Group, Lynch Diversified Vehicles, California's Police and Fire Departments of the City of Folsom, and Airgas, Inc., will establish the environmental and cost benefits of using a 1-kW fuel cell power system to generate electricity, as opposed to traditional gas/diesel generators and lead acid battery power sources. This demonstration will provide operating data from each field unit at customer sites, as well as degradation analysis and projected system lifetime. $1.8 million
PolyFuel, Inc. (Mountain View, CA)
The objective of this project is to further integrate and miniaturize the components of PolyFuel's portable power system for use in mobile computing, and analyze failure modes to increase durability. Polyfuel will also conduct a design for manufacturability and assembly review to ensure that the systems meet the cost targets for commercialization. $2.5 million
Colorado. Anheuser-Busch (St. Louis, MO)
Anheuser-Busch will deploy 23 fuel cell systems as battery replacements for a complete fleet of electric lift trucks at their facility in Fort Collins, Colorado, demonstrating the economic benefits of large fleet conversions of forklifts from lead-acid batteries to fuel cell power units. Success in this project will lead to further fleet conversions at some or all of Anheuser-Busch's other 11 U.S. facilities. $1.1 million
Massachusetts. Nuvera Fuel Cells (Billerica, MA)
To accelerate market penetration of fuel cells, East Penn Manufacturing (an industrial and automotive battery manufacturer) and Nuvera will deploy 10 fuel cell forklifts in East Penn's facility in Topton, PA. Fuel will be supplied by Nuvera's natural gas reformer, storage, and dispensing system. $1.1 million
Michigan. Delphi Automotive (Troy, MI)
Delphi will develop, test and demonstrate a 3- to 5-kW solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) auxiliary power unit (APU) for heavy duty commercial class 8 trucks. The demonstration will improve upon Delphi's current generation SOFC technology by increasing net output power and fuel processing efficiency, decreasing heat loss and parasitic power loss, and establishing diesel fuel compatibility. $2.4 million
New York. MTI MicroFuel Cells (Albany, NY)
To accelerate fuel cell use in consumer markets, MTI will demonstrate a one-watt consumer electronics power pack. The project will focus on improving reliability to meet the standards required by the electronics market and will include testing of individual components, subsystems and complete direct methanol fuel cell systems. MTI will also develop manufacturing processes to improve product yields and reduce overall costs. $2.4 million
Plug Power, Inc. (Latham, NY)
This demonstration project will validate the durability of Plug Power's 5-kW stationary combined heat and power fuel cell system and verify its commercial readiness. Plug Power will carry out a three-year project to test its units in residential and light commercial applications in California. $3.4 million
Plug Power Inc. (Latham, NY)
This project will demonstrate the market viability of the GenCore® rack-mounted fuel cell product that provides clean and highly reliable emergency backup power. Plug Power will install and operate new systems in real-world applications at geographically-diverse sites, providing for as much as 275 kW of backup power. $2.7 million
Pennsylvania. GENCO (Pittsburgh, PA)
This project will deploy 156 fuel cell systems as battery replacements for fleets of electric lift trucks at six of GENCO's existing distribution centers (South Carolina, Pennsylvania - 3 locations, and Ohio - 2 locations). Success at these distribution centers will lead to further fleet conversions at some or all of GENCO's other 109 distribution centers. $6.1 million (six awards)
Texas. Sysco of Houston (West Houston, TX)
Sysco will deploy 90 fuel cell systems as battery replacements for a fleet of pallet trucks at Sysco's new distribution center in Houston, Texas, due to open in August 2009. This installation will be the first ever green field installation in the world without battery infrastructure for a pallet truck fleet. Success at this distribution center will lead to further fleet conversions at some or all of Sysco's other 169 distribution centers. $1.2 million
Virginia. Sprint Communications (Reston, VA)
Sprint Nextel will demonstrate the viability of packaged 1-kW to 10-kW fuel cell systems with 72 hours of on-site fuel storage for backup power to communication infrastructure used by state and local first responders and by public safety answering points (911 centers). Sprint will address siting and permitting issues, and will benchmark the lifecycle costs, performance, and operational characteristics against the incumbent technologies (batteries, generators, and diesel fuel). $7.3 million
Washington. ReliOn Inc. (Spokane, WA)
ReliOn will add reliability to a utility communications network where no backup power was previously available at 25 sites throughout central and northern California. They will deploy 180 fuel cells with a new refillable 72-hour fuel system to locations across the AT&T Mobility Network. This project will provide DOE with installation, fueling logistics, and operating data for fuel cells in voice and data communications networks in mountain, desert, and urban locations. $8.6 million (two awards)
http://www.energy.gov/news2009/7262.htm
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Ford's Iosis Max showcases cutting edge design and commitment to sustainability
The iosis MAX, a fresh interpretation of kinetic design, showcases new levels of efficiency and flexibility
Commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through Ford's new EcoBoost engine technology and PowerShift transmission
Ford demonstrates a greener, smarter and safer future through its vehicles and technologies on display at the Shanghai Auto Show
Source: Ford Motor Company
Shanghai, China. April 20, 2009 - Demonstrating its commitment to a greener, smarter and safer future, Ford Motor Company is displaying a series of exciting vehicles and leading technologies at the Shanghai Auto Show. Making its first Asia Pacific appearance, the iosis MAX concept car features Ford's celebrated kinetic design language, EcoBoost engine technology and PowerShift transmission.
Recently debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, the iosis MAX has dramatic looks and a striking pearlescent 'Limelight' color, which is complemented by innovative solutions that enhance its practicality and environmental performance.
"Although it isn't a forerunner to a specific production vehicle, the iosis MAX clearly highlights how kinetic design is evolving and can be applied with stunning results," said Martin Smith, executive design director, Ford of Europe. Capturing "energy in motion" through its athletic stance and muscular surfacing, the iosis MAX incorporates a dynamic shape and advanced materials to create a dramatic interior environment which is light, spacious and expressive.
Innovative solutions like a 'floating' seat design create a more open cab while giving occupants a more comfortable ride.
"The iosis MAX marks the next stage in the evolution of kinetic design, and showcases a number of affordable engine technologies that will make a difference to the environment and our customers' pockets," concluded Smith.
"Technologies such as Ford EcoBoost and PowerShift, as showcased in the iosis MAX, highlight Ford's ongoing commitment to fuel economy and sustainability," Robert Graziano, chairman and CEO, Ford Motor China, stated. "We are pleased to confirm that both Ford EcoBoost and PowerShift technologies will be available in the China market in 2010."
In addition to the iosis MAX, Ford also has a full production lineup of its best selling cars on display at the Shanghai Auto Show.
Visitors to the Ford stand will experience Ford technologies through interactive exhibits, such as the EcoBoost Touch Table and the interactive ECO Race Challenge, which showcases Ford's dedication to creating fun, efficient and exciting vehicles with a smaller carbon footprint. Demonstrations of Ford SYNC technology will illustrate clever ways to connect with your car.
The Ford Safety Driving Challenge creates a dynamic environment for visitors to experience Ford's commitment to safety. On display will be a New Fiesta Cutaway as well as an interactive safety module and Ford's well-known "Five Safety Dimensions" demonstration.
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Ford reveals Britain's "greenest"
small van: Fiesta Van Econetic
Source: Ford Motor Company
Ford extends green credentials from cars to vans
ECOnetic line-up now includes Mondeo, Focus, Fiesta, Fiesta Van and Transit
Fiesta Van ECOnetic has lowest CO2 in its segment at 98g/km (76.4mpg*)
Prices to be announced nearer the on sale date Autumn 2009
Brentwood, Essex. England. April 23, 2009 - Super-frugal, stylish and 'green' the new Fiesta Van ECOnetic goes on sale in Britain later this year.
The new Fiesta Van ECOnetic shows form can exist with function, offering the same Fiesta style with lowered suspension, low rolling resistance tyres and a specially calibrated Duratorq 1.6-litre TDCi for an ultra-low 98g/km CO2.
Made at Ford's wind-powered engine plant at Dagenham, Essex, the cleverly calibrated 90PS 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi combined with coated Diesel Particulate Filter, produces 10 per cent less CO2 than the already impressive mainstream TDCi and is matched to a special aerodynamic profile that results in just 98g/km CO2 and a Combined 76.4mpg.*
Steve Kimber, commercial vehicles director, Ford of Britain, said: "Many operators are prepared to be green - but still want comfort, performance and an affordable price. The low running costs of this ECOnetic van are bound to make more people consider the 'green' option. It's a great package.
"We are also announcing a Transit ECOnetic today for operators to see that Ford is serious about sustainability and developing their favourite van range in a way that supports their business."
Compared with the previous-generation 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi, Fiesta Van ECOnetic will use 35 gallons less fuel over 12,428 miles - offering genuine savings in daily driving. Extra-urban highway fuel economy is even better - Fiesta Van ECOnetic achieves 88.3 mpg. To achieve this result, further improvements have been made to aerodynamics: lowered ride height and details such as low-drag wheel deflectors build on Fiesta's already streamlined drag co-efficient (Cd) of 0.33.
At the same time, low rolling resistance tyres in an economical 175/65 R14 profile and a longer final drive gear ratio contribute to efficient powertrain performance, especially in highway cruising.
Fiesta Van ECOnetic - what's different?
Aerodynamic spoiler
Lowered suspension
Optimised rolling resistance tyres (175/65R14) and low friction oil
Green shift indicator light
Modified engine calibration
Transmission final drive ratio changed from 3.37 to 3.05
Sustainability has influenced not only new Fiesta Van's development, but also the facilities in manufacturing. Ford's Dagenham Diesel Centre produces Duratorq TDCi engines for all new Fiesta versions and derives all its electricity from renewable sources, using two dedicated wind turbines.
Continued
Ford is also sourcing renewable electricity to cover the full electric power demand of its manufacturing and engineering facilities in Cologne, Germany.
Through this initiative, the company will reduce its CO2 emissions by 190,000 tonnes per year.
(* Fuel economy figures quoted are based on the European Fuel Economy Directive EU 80/1268/EEC which may differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world)
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Electric car that pumps
energy back into grid
By Adam Bennett
Source: Autoblitz
April 24, 2009. Australian engineers have developed a plug-in hybrid electric car that not only generates power but can pump it back into the grid, potentially reducing running costs.
In coming years, car giants Toyota and General Motors will mass produce plug-in hybrid cars, but researchers at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) have gone one step better, developing what they call the vehicle-to-grid (V2G) prototype.
Taking a standard 2006 Toyota Prius, engineers at UTS converted it to plug-in, and then installed additional batteries in the back so it can store electricity, which can then be transferred back into the power grid.
UTS is the first in Australia to develop the V2G technology, and one of the first in the world.
"The vehicle-to-grid technology this car presents could do for the automotive industry and the electricity industry what the personal computer did for computing, and what the mobile phone did for telecommunications," UTS research project director Chris Dunstan said.
"The extra batteries can store energy at off-peak times and feed power back into the grid at times of peak demand.
"On a large scale, this could level out peaks and troughs in power supply across regions."
Mr Dunstan said the running cost of a plug-in hybrid was about a quarter that of a petrol car, or the equivalent of 40 cents a litre using a renewable energy source.
And if energy companies were to compensate motorists for pumping electricity back into the grid, they could potentially save even more money.
Based on a 30km commute, the UTS prototype, dubbed Switch, would cost as little as 50 cents a day to charge with off-peak power.
The prototype would save up to 2.8 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions a year.
Mr Dunstan could not predict how long it would take before a V2G car came on the market, saying no manufacturer yet had plans to develop such a vehicle.
The success of the V2G car would rely on the support of energy companies, whose willingness to buy back the unused electricity would be critical.
"If there is not the demand from the electricity industry to provide this power back in at a reasonable price and a rate that makes sense for consumers, then there is no point in pursuing the technology," Mr Dunstan said.
"We want to get the electricity industry excited about this technology. We want to demonstrate that it is entirely practical."
NSW Environment Minister Carmel Tebbutt admitted V2G was a long way from becoming widespread, but said Switch would become part of her department's car fleet for a trial period.
The Department of Environment and Climate Change helped fund the vehicle.
She admitted a financial incentive, such as a feed-in tariff, would be necessary to create demand from motorists for the new technology.
The NSW government will introduce such a tariff for households generating solar power by the middle of this year.
"You could envisage a world in the future where many people have these cars and there is an opportunity to say 'tomorrow we need everyone to feed their cars back into the grid', and that will help us address a power need on that particular day," she said.
"There would obviously need to be a financial incentive for people to do that, but we're a long way away from that at the moment."
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Volvo C30, S40 and V50 DRIVe
gain extra attitude with R-Design
Having good environmental properties doesn't mean a car has to be boring. Quite the contrary: with R-Design, the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 DRIVe can be styled just as expressively and exclusively as the other model variants.
Responding to the substantial demand for cars that combine good environmental properties with exciting design features, Volvo Cars is now offering the C30, S40 and V50 DRIVe models with optional R-Design features.
This development has been made possible by the continued optimisation of the cars' drivelines. The new C30, S40 and V50 1.6D DRIVe all beat the 120g CO2/km limit (119 g for all three models) - even without the previous exterior modifications designed to cut air drag, such as special body and underbody panels and spoilers.
"We've succeeded in reducing the fuel consumption and CO2 levels of these DRIVe models by more than we initially believed possible. This has created sufficient margin to equip the cars with the R-Design package and still beat the 120g/km emission limit in all models," explains Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President, Product Development at Volvo Cars.
R-Design for C30, S40 and V50 DRIVe
The R-Design package allows customers to choose between 10 body colours and it also includes a number of specially designed exterior and interior details.
Exterior:
Body kit with front and rear spoilers, lower door trim and side-skirts
Roof spoiler on the C30 and V50 and lip spoiler on the boot of the S40
90 mm sports tailpipe, C30 only
17-inch five-spoke Serapis aluminium wheels
Grille and door mirror housings in silk metal finish
Interior:
Upholstery with seating surfaces in cream-coloured leather, sides in off-black Flex-Tec and embossed R-Design logo in the front seats
R-Design centre stack and panel inlays
Gear lever knob trimmed in leather and aluminium
Sports pedals in aluminium, with inlaid rubber strips
Sports steering wheel trimmed in leather, with R-Design emblem
Blue instrument dials for speedometer and tachometer
Textile floor mats with contrasting edging
At the front there are special DRIVe wind deflectors and an additional R-Design badge, and at the rear the DRIVe badge announces the car's low emission levels.
The chassis is 10 mm lower. The lower ground clearance reduces fuel consumption at the same time as the chassis setting generates more direct road feel and more responsive steering.
DRIVe - the cars with the best environmental performance
Volvo's DRIVe badge is attached to cars that offer the very best environmental performance in their class. All today's DRIVe models are equipped with a conventional diesel engine and manual gearbox optimised for extra-low fuel consumption.
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Iconic Ford Transit "goes green"
with new Econetic model
Source: Ford Motor Company
Low CO2 Ford ECOnetic technology joins versatile Transit range
Based on Transit 280 SWB Van with 2.2-litre 115PS Duratorq TDCi
Combined fuel economy of 39.2mpg*, (average 189 g/km CO2)
Transit is first Ford commercial vehicle to achieve Stage V emissions
On sale Autumn 2009. Prices revealed nearer on sale date
Brentwood, Essex. England. April 23, 2009 - Ford's ECOnetic low CO2 technology is coming to Ford's most popular commercial vehicle icon, the Ford Transit. On sale later this year, the new Transit ECOnetic is based on the front-wheel-drive Transit 280 panel van with short wheelbase and 2.2-litre 115PS Duratorq TDCi engine.
Target fuel economy is 39.2mpg*, while average CO2 emissions are a best in class 189 g/km
Following the launch of ECOnetic models in Ford's Fiesta, Focus and Mondeo passenger car ranges, the company is now committed to continuing this affordable low CO2 approach in the commercial vehicle market. In addition to the new Transit ECOnetic, an ECOnetic version of its compact workmate, the Fiesta Van, will also go on sale later this year.
Steve Kimber, commercial vehicles director, Ford of Britain, said: "We appreciate that our commercial vehicle customers have a clear interest in saving fuel and lowering their cost of ownership. At the same time, environmental friendliness is also growing in importance for them, and with the new Transit ECOnetic they can achieve both."
Transit ECOnetic - what's different?
Optimised rolling resistance tyres (215/75R16) and low friction oil
Green shift indicator light
Modified engine calibration
Standard 70mph speed limiter
Improvements over the standard 115PS 280S of 24 g/km CO2
New low-drag wheel covers
The option of a closed-loop, coated Diesel Particulate Filter (cDPF) enables Transit ECOnetic to satisfy the Euro Stage V emissions standards, available as an option. The 115PS engine reaches its peak power at 3,500rpm, and delivers a maximum torque figure of 300Nm at 1,800 to 2,000rpm.
The Transit ECOnetic features the Durashift six-speed manual transmission (VMT-6). This offers a wider range of available gear ratios over the prior Durashift five-speed transmission, allowing better fuel economy at all speeds, while the power and torque upgrade offers rewarding performance on demand. The 'shorter' gearing in first gear allows for improved pull-away performance, while the 'longer' gearing in top provides improved highway fuel economy (around 10 per cent better compared with the combined NEDC figures), with reduced engine revs for a range of speeds and loads for the standard Transit configuration. For the ECOnetic version, longer gearing has been achieved through the fitment of a 4.36 final drive ratio.
Standard on Transit ECOnetic is Ford's Electronic Stability Program (ESP) system, including Hill Launch Assist (HLA). It also has a generous array of standard equipment, including the Ford Audio 6000 unit as well as load box safety equipment, including a full steel bulkhead and solid tie down hooks.
Additional features, such as a trip computer (to monitor fuel performance), rear parking sensors and a new rear view camera with overhead seven-inch colour display, can also be ordered.
The Transit ECOnetic is as practical as any Transit. It offers 1,097kg gross payload (the standard Transit 280S van is 1,092kg), and the same load box volume of 6.5 cubic metres - using the SAE method of volume calculations
Detail engineering for the Transit ECOnetic included reducing the availability of the heaviest options such as a second sliding door. However, all standard and optional safety and comfort features are available.
Ford Transit ECOnetic Technical Specifications
Engine data
Engine type Duratorq TDCi 2.2-litre
Displacement - cc2198
Fuel type Diesel
Bore mm 86
Stroke mm 94.6
Max power PS/kW115/85 at rpm3,500
Torque ISO Nm 300 at rpm1,800 to 2,000
Emission level Stage 5 **
Fuel Economy*
Litres/100 km (mpg)
Urban 45.56/44.84**
Extra Urban 39.23/39.23**
Combined 31.74/32.47**
CO2 g/km 189 / 189**
*Fuel economy figures quoted are based on the European Fuel Economy Directive EU 80/1268/EEC which may differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world.
** with optional cDPF
Suspension
Front Independent MacPherson struts, variable rate coil springs, stabiliser bar and gas pressurised shock absorbers.
Rear Single leaf springs, gas pressurised shock absorbers
Brakes
Dual-circuit, with self-adjusting servo-assistance. Front and rear discs.
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Active Yaw Control (AYC),
Roll Over Mitigation (ROM), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), Anti-lock
Braking System (ABS) and Hill Launch Assist (HLA)
Steering
Rack and pinion, power-assisted steering
Wheels and Tyres5 ½ J 16" steel wheels with 215/75 R16 lower rolling resistance tyres
Fuel tank capacity litres 80
Weights*
Payload (gross)1097 kg
Kerb weight1743 kg
Gross Weight2840 kg
* All weight data refer to base version assuming full fluid levels and 90% fuel levels.
All kerb masses quoted are subject to manufacturing tolerances with minimum equipment. Trend, Limited and Sport models will have greater kerb masses and, therefore, lower payloads due to the increased amount of standard equipment. Any additional options specified on the vehicle will reduce the payload accordingly.
Exterior Dimensions (mm)
Overall height - laden 2082
Overall height - unladen 2089
Overall length mm 4863
Overall width (with/without mirrors) 2374/1974
Wheelbase 2933
Front overhang 933
Rear overhang 997
Turning circle kerb to kerb (m) 10.8, wall to wall 11.4
Loadspace functionality (mm)
Load length (max) 2582
Load width (max) 1762
Cargo floor to roof 1430
Cargo floor to ground - laden 538
Cargo floor to ground - unladen 609
Rear door height 1370
Rear door width 1540
Sliding door height 1352
Sliding door width 1030
Cargo volume (cu. m) 6.5 (SAE)
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Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Group Exhibit
Day 1 - Hannover Fair
Source: Fuel Cell Today
April 20, 2009. The sun is shining, the birds are singing and the flowers are starting to open their faces for another year so of course this could only mean that is time to lock ourselves away again for an entire week in Hall 13 at the Hannover Fair.
The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Group Exhibit seems to have once again grown in floor space with a good mix of companies from micro-companies, such as Bac2, right up to global multinationals such as BASF.
Arriving mid morning it was interesting to see that whilst footfall was definitely slow all the companies that I have spoken too have said that already business has been brisk. The German presence is somewhat overwhelming with 91 of the 148 exhibitors being listed as German but this is perhaps unsurprising taking into account not only its location and lack of issue with exchange rates but also critically the relative strength of the German fuel cell industry as compared with any other EU country.
This morning was my chance to finally get to meet the people behind SFC Smart Fuel Cell, one of the industries leading lights. This one company has sold and shipped 13,024 DMFC units in an increasing array of markets. Interestingly for me off-grid power is one of them. I say interestingly as this proto-trend has been bubbling under for about a year or so now and Fuel Cell Today have noticed an increasing numbers of companies flirting with this concept but very few actually selling and shipping product. SFC Smart have developed, alongside udomi a solar / fuel cell hybrid and have been selling and shipping turn-key systems
during the past year and have started to build real traction in this area. The systems are scalable and when designed in from the start can provide the bridging gap needed from just a solar system. Although the fuel cell is one of the key cost components of the unit the prices quoted are not excessive when you take into account the value added that they represent. Alongside this SFC Smart have a number of other of their commercial products on view, from surveillance monitoring equipment being used as track side monitoring on railway lines, to delivery bikes being used by the German post office. The later of these is just one of the vehicles available in the ride-and-drive area outside. The only problem when you get out there to try the vehicles is that riding in this lovely weather on a power assisted bike is just really good fun and it is very hard to get off and come back into an air conditioned hall! More from SFC Smart in the full write up.
After lunch I managed to catch a presentation by Phil Doran of Core Tech fame.
Phil is a well known, and respected, speaker on all issues to do with the finance sector and fuel cells and as always it is was interesting to listen to him talk about what he sees as failures of finance mechanisms in Europe. Phil's point, if I paraphrase this right, is that the European industry is dominated by micro companies that have no revenue or cash flow. As they have no, or little revenue, accessing finance mechanisms such as EU funding, which requires matched funding, is impossible. Also as they have no capital they cannot gain access to the debt markets. When asked what model, or idea, he would like to see
replicated he suggested something like a scaled up Carbon Trust (UK) which could be used to finance companies who are in such an early stage of development. It was very interesting to watch the reaction to his presentation as there is obviously often a disconnect between the finance industry and the fuel cell industry.
One of the other clear trends, even from Day 1, is the mushrooming of interest in high-temp PEMs with companies such as Bac2, Plug Power and BASF here promoting their high-temp products.
Earlier in the week Bac2 press released that they are now selling bipolar plates for high-temp PEM stacks. Within the last month the new bipolar plate has been out of cell tested up to 250 degrees C with stable results, with the operating temp expected to be around 200 degrees C. In terms of shipments the company
reports that the first order has already taken place but cannot give any hints as to where. One point they were at pains to make is that they developed a bipolar plate and have not done any in-house high-temp stack testing.
Earlier in the week BASF also press released a new high-temp PEM membrane to be launched at the Fair. Unfortunately we cannot provide any more details on this as FCT was told that they would be unavailable to speak to us.
Other companies which I spoke with today include Greenlight Innovations and ICI Caldaie who are making a 30kWe PEM CHP unit. More on both of these companies in the full event report.
Day 2 Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Group Exhibit
Source: Fuel Cell Today
April 21, 2009. It appears that the reason it was somewhat slow yesterday is that everyone seems to have planned to come today. First thing this morning saw a large number of people arrive at Hall 13 to the point where on some stands people were queuing to speak to the companies.
This morning I was able to flash my Fuel Cell Today ID and get to speak to a number of the well known companies such as Ballard, Hydrogenics, Proton Motor and Nedstack.
Proton Motor were the first company to achieve TUV SUD recognition in late 2008 for one of its PEM fuel cell modules. Now the company has developed into having three core markets, ships, small stationary and speciality vehicles such as buses. Last year the company made a real splash by being the fuel cell developer on the AlsterWasser fuel cell tourist ship in Hamburg. Not only has this ship been working well it has provided a real proof that the technology works. One of the issues in this market is the fragmentation of the adopters. Unlike in the telecommunication industry, for example, where the number of telecomm companies is somewhat limited the shipping industry for markets such as tourist vessels, tugs, ferries etc is very fragmented with many adopters linked directly to shipyards. Proton are now working hard educating the shipyards that the technology is ready for adoption in back to base applications and are expecting a new order in the short term.
Also the company has now teamed up with S-Power, a UPS solutions company, to provide fuel cell systems to S-Power for integration. I had a chance to talk with Robert Schulte, the companies Managing Director and when I asked why they had turned to fuel cells the answer was a clear that it was customer requirements. Customers were requiring UPS systems to be silent and emission free, which for base stations got S Power into fuel cells. The first units are now being tested in Germany before worldwide sales beings.
Nedstack are another industry success story. The PEM stack and system producer now has orders in a range of markets, from stand-alone "generators" for concerts, with Bredennood, to the development of the HyTruck (photos will be in the full event report) which is fuel cell hybrid truck which has been developed by a truck company. The stack is 16kW with motors at 60kW. Interestingly the stack is only needed to be 16kW because to provide propulsion at 50 km/hr you only need 15kW of power. Next year will see delivery of 10 of these trucks with 4 hydrogen refuelling stations also to be created.
With plans for next year to head into the delivery of thousands of units Nedstack is now focusing on cost down and manufacturing. Going down a level to stack components Advert is a spin-out from the University
of Patras which is plugging directly in the high-temp PEM trend. Advent is developing high-temp PEM polymers, membranes and MEAs. As a very new company with a core focus on R&D their products are already being tested by a number of companies and they are expecting.
I also spoke today to an couple of what we see as old fashioned companies which have developed a fuel cell system and are now looking into which market they can sell the system. This scatter gun approach is an interesting though somewhat high risk approach and has seen a number of fuel cell company victims already.
So all we can say is good luck to these companies.
The full event report will include information on Ballard, Hydrogenics, FutureE and Ceramic Fuel Cells.
Finally today I had a chat to Arno Evers, the founder of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Group Exhibit. Passing over the torch of the Exhibit to Tobias Renz has freed Arno up to follow his passion of Power to the People. Alongside this he has now also launched the H2FC Virtual Fair (www.virtual-fair.com) which piggybacks on the success of Second Life to develop an online fuel cell and hydrogen exhibition. Companies can subscribe to have their virtual booth for a year and even just playing with the current suite of examples it looks like slick technology which should be really popular (expect to see us there soon).
Day 3 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell
Group Exhibit
Source: Fuel Cell Today
April 22, 2009. Well we are now half way through the week, the day when most women shrink a inch or two switching from heels to flats! Now is also the time to reflect on this year's additions to the Group Exhibit. The increased exhibitor work area and private meeting rooms are a very welcome addition and very heavily used but from my perspective the new Technical Forum whilst a great idea needs some work. Each year in the public forum exhibitors have a chance of a mini 20 minute interview and ok most companies use this simply to pitch their companies but often there is a nugget of really interesting information. This year the new technical forum allows exhibitors to speak to for up to an hour to discuss product innovations, timelines to production or technical advances. Great. But here the balance between people who are really interested in the presentation and people who just want a free drink and lunch needs to be addressed.
Guido Gummert gave an excellent overview of the development of Baxi's mCHP unit, after thankfully asking if anyone didn't speak German (something that other speakers could well do with taking on board in an international setting such as this). Unfortunately the presentation was right at lunch time so the area was definitely crowded but a large section of these were normal fair goers popping for a free meal and a chat. Not conducive to concentration! Annoyance factor aside Guido walked through the development programme of Gamma +, the companies 1kWe unit. One of the reasons that I find this development interesting is that Baxi are one of the few non Japanese firms investing in low temperature PEM units for mCHP. Guido addressed this head one saying that the reason for using PEM units (from Ballard) is their ability to cope with start / stop cycles and can modulate loads. The Gamma + can modulate from 30-100% electric load, which would allow the householders to basically turn it down if full load was not required. As with many companies Baxi is now in a cost-down and demonstration phase. Levels of redundancy are being targeted and so are cost efficient supply chains. The company is part of the German Callux programme and will be testing a number of units over the next three years with market introduction targeted for after this period.
Plug Power is another company working on to bring to market a product for the mCHP market but its GenSys Blue is a thermal load following unit with a high-temperature PEM. Something of a novelty only a year ago high-temp PEMs have seen something of a phenomenally fast development track with market introduction of the GenSys Blue targeted for around the same time as some of the SOFC mCHP developers. With core markets being North America and Europe, in which Plug is working with Vaillant, the unit would be grid tied and replace the traditional condensing boiler. At present along with the Baxi unit in the case of grid failure the unit would not be able to be switched on from the off position but if running would keep going. Talking to staff at the Plug stand there certainly appears to be an interest in developing a grid independent option, especially as the power needed to start up the unit is apparently only in the region of 500 watts. At present Plug is producing units in the low tens to get them out for real world customer testing and is targeting 2012 - 2015 as launch date. This 2012-2015 really is a key time for the mCHP market.
FuelCon are one of the mainstays of the fuel cell test station market and have been working in this area for many years. The good news this year is that due to an increase in orders they have had to break ground on the new larger production facility. The increase in orders is due to a number of reasons including the move of companies to instigating real world manufacturing capabilities and needing test station for repeat quality of the product, rather than R&D. R&D test stations are still a core market and the company has recently launched the C10 and C30 units aimed at universities. Although not bespoke they have been designed with a long history of working with universities and taking into account of the need for a good test station at an acceptable price these units are being targeted to fill the gap. More on FuelCon in the full write up.
Other companies that will be featured in the full write up are H2Logic, WS Reformer and H-Tec.
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Ford Team aims to drive 2010 Fusion Hybrid 1.000 miles on a single tank of gas
The Ford Fusion Hybrid team will attempt to drive more than 1,000 miles - for more than 43 continuous hours - on a single tank of gas, raising money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in the process
The most fuel-efficient, mid-sized sedan in America - the Fusion Hybrid - driven by a team of Ford hybrid engineers, a fuel efficiency expert and a NASCAR star, will have to achieve an average of at least 57 mpg on the challenge to reach its goal
By using Eco-Driving techniques engineers have achieved 70 mpg during testing of the Ford Fusion Hybrid in preparation for the challenge
Consumers can improve their own vehicle's fuel economy performance is by adopting Ford's "Eco-Driving" tips used for the 1,000-Mile Challenge
Source: Ford Motor Company
Dearborn, Michigan. USA. April 21, 2009 - This weekend, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid is being put to the ultimate fuel-efficiency test. A team of drivers, including NASCAR star Carl Edwards and world-record breaking hypermiler Wayne Gerdes, will attempt to drive more than 1,000 miles on a single tank of gas, raising money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in the process.
The 1,000-Mile Challenge starts at around 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, from Mount Vernon, Va., and ends the morning of Monday, April 27, in Washington, D.C.
The team will drive for more than 43 hours continuously to reach the 1,000-mile goal. The drivers will do stints of between two and three hours each and will have regular breaks to ensure safe driving is maintained. Already rated as the most fuel-efficient, mid-sized sedan in America, the Fusion Hybrid will need to average at least 57 mpg to achieve its goal. During preliminary testing in preparation for this challenge, Ford engineers have reached as much as 70 mpg in the Fusion Hybrid by using Eco-Driving techniques.
The team will run clinics for media and customers over the weekend in the Fusion Hybrid, conducting interviews and vehicle demonstrations on how simple techniques can make a significant difference to real world fuel economy numbers.
The Fusion Hybrid being used in the challenge will be a factory produced model with no modifications or alterations and will run on regular 87 octane gas.
Ford is taking on the 1,000-Mile Challenge for a number of reasons:
To demonstrate Ford's commitment to be the best or amongst the best in fuel economy in every vehicle segment in which it competes;
To highlight the crucial role the driver plays in maximizing fuel economy and demonstrate how consumers can make a difference through Eco-Driving;
To raise awareness about Eco-Driving and how the Fusion Hybrid contributes to it with the ability to run up to 47 mph in pure electric mode; and
To raise awareness and funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation The 1,000-Mile Challenge team comprises of:
Wayne Gerdes, the world-record breaking hypermiling champion and founder of www.cleanmpg.com;
Carl Edwards, the NASCAR race star who recently bought his own 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid;
Sherif Marakby, graduate of Maryland University and Ford hybrid chief engineer;
Gil Portalatin, Ford hybrid applications manager and Ford Fusion Hybrid team leader;
Tom Rolewicz, one of Ford's top calibration experts and hybrid system expert; and
Steve Burke, Ford product expert on hybrid applications
The mileage-maximizing techniques that the Ford team will use and pass on to consumers include:
Slowing down and maintaining even throttle pressure;
Gradually accelerating and smoothly braking;
Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles and anticipating traffic conditions;
Coasting up to red lights and stop signs to avoid fuel waste and brake wear;
Minimize use of heater and air conditioning to reduce the load on the engine;
Close windows at high speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag;
Applying the "Pulse and Glide" technique while maintaining the flow of traffic;
Minimize excessive engine workload by using the vehicle's kinetic forward motion to climb hills, and use downhill momentum to build speed; and
Avoiding bumps and potholes that can reduce momentum
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UK Ministers Praise Intelligent Energy
Source: Fuel Cell Today
April 21, 2009. Britain's Business Secretary, Lord Mandelson, yesterday praised UK fuel cell developer Intelligent Energy as an example of how innovation in clean technology can be one of the pillars of economic recovery in the UK.
"Intelligent Energy is a prime example of innovation being driven by excellence in technology, harnessing the private sector to grow and thrive, and receiving support from government in the shape of the Technology Strategy Board," said Lord Mandelson, the business secretary, discussing the role that government can
play in helping UK business gain a competitive edge globally.
Earlier, on a visit to Intelligent Energy's facilities at the Innovation Centre in Loughborough, prime minister Gordon Brown was told of Intelligent Energy's breakthrough role with Boeing in providing the power system for the world's first manned fuel cell aircraft in 2008. He also learnt of the company's leadership of a consortium, part-funded by the government's Technology Strategy Board, which aims to put a fleet of hydrogen-powered taxis on the streets of London for the 2012 Olympics. http://www.intelligent-energy.com
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Mercedes-Benz at Auto China 2009
"Green luxury" redefined - most
economical and environmentally-sustainable S-Class of all time
Shanghai, China. April 20, 2009. At Auto China, Mercedes-Benz presents the 2009 S-Class, thus delivering another automobile that combines fascination and responsibility at the highest level. The flagship of the Stuttgart premium brand has been extensively updated and, at its world premiere in Shanghai, sets new benchmarks in terms of safety, comfort and environmental responsibility. One highlight of China's most important auto show is the new S 400 HYBRID, the most economical luxury saloon with a petrol engine (7.9 l/100 km). In the world's largest S-Class market, Mercedes-Benz is also showcasing its re-designed top model, the S 65 AMG. The new E-Class celebrates its Asian premiere at Auto China. The most notable characteristics of the new luxury saloon include the unique combination of driver assistance systems. The production-ready BlueZERO concept gives a definitive perspective on the future of environmentally-sustainable electric vehicles from Mercedes-Benz.
During the first quarter of 2009, China has confirmed its position as the world's leading market for luxury class automobiles. With more than 11,000 vehicles, Mercedes has achieved sales growth here of 30 percent, thus exceeding the positive market performance. In March, the increase was as much as 50 percent compared with the same month last year. "This means that March saw Mercedes-Benz achieve its best month ever in China. The new generation S-Class will further boost this strong performance," comments Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.
With a more dynamic design, even greater comfort and more forward-thinking innovations, the extensively updated 2009 S-Class underpins its position as the benchmark for automotive advancement. Dr. Dieter Zetsche once more, "With a host of innovations, the S-Class will further expand its leading global position. Thanks to its state-of-the-art driveline technology and groundbreaking safety systems, the Mercedes-Benz flagship is a technological leader and a pioneer of automotive development."
New to the S-Class is the world's first series production hybrid powertrain to feature lithium-ion batteries, making the S 400 HYBRID the most fuel-efficient luxury limousine with a petrol engine. Fuel consumption is only 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres. With carbon-dioxide emissions of 186 grams per kilometre, the new S 400 HYBRID takes the crown as the "CO2 Champion of the Luxury Class".
The engine line-up for the 2009 S-Class also features eight modern petrol and diesel power units. By means of targeted aerodynamic refinements, optimised rolling resistance tyres and modifications to the steering, fuel pump and 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, Mercedes-Benz development engineers succeeded in reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to seven percent against the preceding model, while maintaining the same levels of performance.
Hallmark S-Class safety is increased by the unique combination of camera and radar-based driver assistance systems such as Speed Limit Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and Adaptive High Beam Assist. For the 2009 S-Class, the Night View Assist feature with infrared camera has been further developed and equipped with pedestrian detection. As soon as the system recognizes pedestrians in front of the car, they are highlighted in the display in order to make them more noticeable.
Agility and driving pleasure are heightened by direct steering and modified Active Body Control running gear with crosswind stabilization for the eight and twelve-cylinder models. In a further world premiere, the Stuttgart automaker has equipped the COMAND and COMAND APS operation and display systems, located in the centre console, with new optional SPLITVIEW technology.
Asian premiere for the new E-Class
The new E-Class celebrates its Asian premiere in Shanghai. The latest generation of the world's most successful luxury saloon sets the standard for safety, comfort and environmental sustainability in its market segment. Its highlights include drowsiness detection, Adaptive High Beam Assist and automatic emergency braking, which can help in the avoidance of accidents.
Concept BlueZERO - proves everyday usability of zero-emissions vehicles
With its production-ready BlueZERO concept, Mercedes-Benz is showing the way in Shanghai towards environmentally-sustainable electric mobility, without any restriction in everyday usability, interior space or luggage capacity. The intelligent, modular concept supports three models with different powertrain configurations on the basis of one vehicle architecture:
the BlueZERO E-CELL with battery electric drive and an electrical range of up to 200 kilometres,
the BlueZERO F-CELL with a fuel cell that achieves an electrical range of considerably more than 400 kilometres,
and the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS with electric drive and an additional internal combustion engine as a range extender. This version achieves an overall range of up to 600 kilometres and drives up to 100 kilometres on electric power alone.
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Telecoms Carrier Gets Fuel Cell Grant
Source: Fuel Cell Today
April 21, 2009. The largest single grant under the US Department of Energy's $41.9 Million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Funding for Fuel Cell Technology has been awarded to Sprint, a wireless telecoms carrier, as part of the US Department of Energy's $41.9 Million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Funding for Fuel Cell Technology.
Sprint has announced it is the only wireless carrier to be awarded a $7.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding earmarked for fuel cell technology. The grant funding will be used to expand Sprint's hydrogen fuel cell program at cell sites throughout the United States - creating 72 hours of additional network resiliency, especially critical during emergencies and natural disasters.
The grant funding will be used to expand the number of Sprint cell sites which rely on hydrogen fuel cells for back-up power. These fuel cells are activated when service from the local electric utility is disrupted during severe weather or other natural disasters. Currently, most deployed hydrogen fuel cells are paired with low-pressure hydrogen tanks which provide around 15 hours of back-up power before needing refueling. As part of this grant, Sprint will work with hydrogen fuel cell manufacturers, tank providers and hydrogen suppliers to extend the unassisted run-time to 72 hours.
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Bac2 announces all-moulded bipolar plates for high temperature PEM fuel cells
Source: Fuel Cell Today
April 17, 2009. Bac2, the fuel cell materials and components company, has announced that that next week during the Hannover Fair it will release its new bipolar plates for high temperature PEM fuel cells.
Using its patented ElectroPhen conductive polymer, the new plates are proven to be mechanically and electrically stable at over 200 degrees Centigrade
Traditional bipolar plates for fuel cells have to be machined to create the channels through which fuel, air and water vapour flow. ElectroPhen is an electrically conductive thermoset material, made from readily available bulk constituents, which can be compression moulded and cured at room temperature.
Bipolar plates based upon ElectoPhen do not need further machining, so they can be produced quickly and economically in any quantity. High temperature versions are subject to a proprietary conditioning process but this does not add significant cost or production time.
ElectroPhen is a unique, patented conductive polymer that requires relatively little loading with graphite to achieve the required conductivity for fuel cell plate applications. In addition to offering customised plates in high volume, Bac2 markets blank plates that customers can machine for prototyping work before committing to mould tooling expense.
Bac2 will be at Stand G46/3 in the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Group Exhibit in Hall 13.
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Green environment for media
at G8 climate talks
AFP - Journalists work in the press center during the G8 environment meeting in Siracusa, on the Italian island …
Syracuse, Italy. April 23, 2009. (AFP) - With work stations made of sturdy recycled cardboard and not a printer in sight, the press corps at Group of Eight climate change talks in Italy were decidedly living green.
Organisers say the 100 chairs and 40 tables in the press centre were built from 800 kilos (1,800 pounds) of cardboard, or the paper equivalent of 4,000 Italian daily newspapers.
The savings in carbon dioxide emissions is estimated at 1.2 tonnes, they said.
The egg-shaped waste bins -- divided of course into sections for paper, plastic and general rubbish -- were a fine example of Italian design, while outside lifesize plastic blue turtles dotted the lawns, reflecting the talks' logo.
Environment ministers from the Group of Eight wealthy nations and another eight emerging nations were, for their part, holding their talks in the magnificent hall of a newly restored medieval castle, the Castello Maniace, in Syracuse, Sicily.
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