First launched as a proof of concept for its compact hydrogen fuel cell technology back in 2014, Pragma Industries believes its pedal-assist electric bicycle is finally ready for prime time. The French company signaled its intent to sell bikes to the mainstream European commuter, with a 100 km (62 mile) and a “charge time” of just 2 minutes. The Secret Behind the Pragma Alpha’s NumbersPragma Alpha isn’t a conventional, battery-powered ebike. Instead, it’s powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. A fuel cell that, the company claims, offers a number of significant advantages over conventional batteries. Advantages that include more consistent range and performance in extreme hot and cold weather and a more accurate H2 gauge that’s better at accurately communicating remaining energy and range to the bike’s rider. But it's facing also some problemsGranted, the bike has a number of problems facing its widespread adoption. Hydrogen might not be as clean as many people think. And despite a number of very smart people saying hydrogen is the future– the infrastructure necessary to fill the Alpha simply isn’t there. Technical specifications:electrical motor: brose 36v motor power: electrical assistance up to 250 w top speed: electrical assistance up to 25 km/h fuel cell technology: 150 w pem fuel cell bridging energy: 150 wh li-ion batteries h2 storage: 2 l compressed h2 gas cylinder charging time: 2 minutes Charging time only 2 minutesCompared to conventional electric bikes, Alpha is refilled with hydrogen in only 2 minutes using the filling station, while standard e-bikes take more 3 to 4 hours to be fully charged. Pragma industries’ partner Atawey has developed H2 spring filling station for Alpha. It produces hydrogen from water and electricity (water electrolysis). The hydrogen is stored and compressed before being refilled into Alpha's hydrogen tank. Article sources:
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