The hybrid system is known as a parallel arrangement, which means the Model U can operate on either the hydrogen ICE engine or electric motor, or both for extra power. Much like the Toyota Prius, an electric-gasoline hybrid, regenerative braking reclaims energy that would otherwise be lost as heat, storing it in the air-cooled battery pack for the next hill climb. It isn't difficult to see why this type of system is part of our automotive future, despite the current lack of a hydrogen infrastructure. But the success of a car like this along with fuel cell powered vehicles will drive this much needed infrastructure to our cities sooner rather than later.
For added good measure, Ford is helping to encourage development of materials that are safe to produce, use and recycle over and over again in a cradle-to-cradle cycle. That means, the polyester used inside the Model U on its seats, dash, steering wheel, armrests, and more, never goes to the landfill. It also uses corn-based tire fillers, sunflower seed engine oil, soy-based seat foam, corn-based compostable sunroof canvas, and UV cure clearcoat paint. The UV cure process eliminates the need for a bake oven and uses less energy and solvents than traditional systems, not to mention better resistance to scratches.
Reading about corn, sunflower, and soy based products may incite a chuckle, but the sobering reality of the state of our environment has me, for one, applauding Ford's willingness to consider and then test these scientific advancements in everyday materials.