Fire fighting Car - Peugeot H2O concept

September 24, 2002 - The Peugeot H2O concept demonstrates the effectiveness of fuel cell technology, in a vehicle for fire fighting, which can be used for reconnaissance in areas within towns and cities which are difficult for large vehicles to access.

The H2O is an electric vehicle with batteries, fitted with an auxiliary fuel cell. The PSA Peugeot Citroën group first showed this technology in a Taxi PAC demonstrator vehicle in June 2001. This latest concept has progressed the idea and is equipped with an auxiliary power unit which provides a continuous source of electrical energy to supply various emergency items of equipment such as the pumps, smoke extractors, communication systems, and electric sockets.

The fuel cell system is very environmentally friendly as the only waste product is water, with no other emissions or pollutants.

To allow the H2O to continue to operate in situations where visibility might be severely reduced due to smoke, the vehicle is fitted with proximity sensors in the bumpers and a radar system incorporated in the front panel.

The stylish appearance of the Peugeot H2O belies the fact that it is a fully operational fire-fighting vehicle, equipped with suitable technological equipment. The vehicle was developed in consultation with fire-fighters.

The front of the vehicle looks typically Peugeot with its feline style front end. The rear of the passenger compartment is designed for two people, with a tank and telescopic ladder located across the top, as well as output sockets and connections appropriate to this type of fire fighting vehicle.

The headlights are similar to those on the RC concept cars, with the individual contours of the hood instantly recognisable. Driving lamps are positioned either side of the air intake, built in to the lower section of the front bumper. These extra lights provide greater illumination in difficult and smoke filled conditions.

The hood is short and steeply angled to merge into the windscreen. The chunky wheel arches exude power and strength and the doors curve round to where the tank is located at the back. The rear storage compartments are hidden by metal screens and on the left hand side there are two handles and steps for easy access to the top of the vehicle.

The interior features a touch screen, telephone and GPS system. In front of the passenger is a second screen linked to a PC which displays maps of large buildings. Between the two front seats are the handbrake and controls for operating the ladder. The seats are finished in Neoprene.On the door panels, metal frames are fitted with compartments to demonstrate how different firefighting equipment can be carried.
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