Numerical Modelling Assessment of the Impact of Hydrogen on the Energy and Environmental Performance of a Car Using Dual Fuel (Gasoline–Hydrogen)

The utilization of “green” hydrogen in transportation areas gives rise to production- and supply infrastructure-related challenges; therefore, its wider application in automotive transport would lead to higher demand with cost reduction and a faster expansion of the hydrogen refuelling network. This study presents energy and environmental performance indicators analyses of a Nissan Qashqai J10 engine during the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC), replacing conventional fossil gasoline with dual-fuel (D-F) gasoline and hydrogen. Numerical modelling was conducted using AVL Cruise™ (Version R2022.2) software, utilizing the torque, fuel consumption, and environmental performance data of the HR16DE engine obtained through experimental testing across a wide range of loads and speeds on an engine test bench. The experimental investigation was carried out in two stages: using pure gasoline (G100); injecting a hydrogen additive into the intake air, constituting 5% of the gasoline mass (G95H5). Following similar stages, numerical modelling was conducted using the vehicle’s technical specifications to calculate engine load and speed throughout the WLTC range. Instant fuel consumption and pollutant emissions (CO, CH, NOx) were determined for various driving modes using experimental data maps. CO2 emissions were calculated considering fuel composition and consumption. By integrating the instant values, the total and specific fuel consumption and emissions were calculated. As a result, this study identified the effect of a 5% hydrogen additive in improving engine energy efficiency, reducing incomplete combustion products and lowering greenhouse gas (CO2) emissions under various driving modes. Finally, the results were compared with the requirements of EU standards.