The great challenges for future propulsion systems are the environmental impact on emissions and the diversification of fuels particularly with regard to sustainability of resources. On the way to low-emission mobility, fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) attach more and more relevance. Recently developed fuel cells have to compete against the huge built-in societal and technological network surrounding the internal combustion engines. Therefore, optimised efficiencies and material innovations are necessary for further FCV development. This paper first looks at the process and functions of a fuel cell power train. The economical aspects of market launch of FCV are discussed. Each of the world's 10 biggest automotive companies currently has a fuel cell developing program. The market for conventional propulsion systems is dominated by a few market leaders. This oligopoly trend could be pursued for the future market entry of FCV. In the paper the strategic aspect of a market launch of FCV is described by the help of a game theoretical model. When this model's outputs are combined with the anticipated rate of fuel cell vehicles, learning curves and network effects, it can be seen that if the successful market launch of FCVs is desired, an alliance structure within the automotive industry is the optimal path.
Competition and alliances in fuel cell power train development
Wettbewerb und Allianzen in der Entwicklung und Markteinführung von Brennstoffzellenantrieben
International Journal of Hydrogen Energy ; 28 , 7 ; 717-723
2003
7 Seiten, 6 Bilder, 1 Tabelle, 16 Quellen
Article (Journal)
English
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