While AFVs are not inherently more dangerous than traditional vehicles, they do have different characteristics. Improper handling can lead to injuries.

The trainings, which were created with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy Vehicle Technologies Office, are free for a limited time. Each course offers 2.0 hours of online training.

This online course is a self-paced training that includes 10 chapters and one comprehensive test. After completing the course, trainees will be able to identify potential hazards of working with an EV or AFV; describe correct personal protective equipment to be used in dealing with an EV or AFV; and follow proper towing and roadside assistance procedures for EVs and AFVs.

ENROLL IN THIS COURSE

This online course is a self-paced training with seven chapters and one comprehensive test. The course teaches personnel to identify the potential hazards of working with an EV or AFV; recognize fuel storage and system components of EVs and AFVs; and follow proper procedures for dismantling, recycling, and crushing EVs and AFVs. For more information and to access the training modules, go to the NAFTC courses and workshops webpage at: naftc.wvu.edu/courses-and-workshops.

ENROLL IN THIS COURSE

Contact: Tracy Novak, Communications National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium

West Virginia University 304-293-6928; tracy.novak@mail.wvu.edu

Hydrogen is one of the cleanest fuels available for transportation. Hydrogen does not produce carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), or hydrocarbon (HC) emissions because it does not contain carbon. The main byproduct of its use is water (H₂O). 

Unlike fossil fuels, which will eventually run out, hydrogen is a renewable energy source that is almost unlimited.  However, there will always be the need for a source of energy to produce hydrogen gas for use in vehicles.

There are two main categories of hydrogen-powered vehicles, those that use internal combustion engines (ICEs) and those that use fuel cells to produce power. Similar to conventional vehicles powered by ICEs, hydrogen-powered vehicles have an internal combustion engine (ICE) that intakes air and hydrogen. The fuel air charge is ignited with a spark as is done in gasoline engines.

Hydrogen gas can also be used as a fuel source for a fuel cell—a device that creates an electrical current to power a vehicle. Vehicles that are powered with hydrogen fuel cells do not have onboard internal combustion engines and are significantly different from conventional ICE powered vehicles. 

Hydrogen Fuel Cells

A hydrogen fuel cell can be used in a hydrogen-fueled powertrain. The fuel cell converts a fuel’s chemical energy to electrical energy by reacting with oxygen or an oxidizing agent. The electrical energy can be used to drive an
electric motor.

Hydrogen fuel cells are attractive to vehicle manufacturers because they produce no toxic emissions and do not have the operating range limitations of electric vehicles. Some prototype hydrogen fuel cell vehicles can drive more than three hundred miles on a single fill.

How a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Works

A hydrogen fuel cell uses a device called a proton exchange membrane (PEM) to separate hydrogen protons from hydrogen electrons. The hydrogen protons are forced through a membrane, through which hydrogen electrons
cannot pass. The electrons travel along an external path, creating an electrical current, before rejoining the protons. The hydrogen molecules then combine with oxygen to form water, which leaves the vehicle through the powertrain’s
exhaust.

NAFTC WVU. “Hydrogen Fuel Cell Annimation”. Youtube Video, 00:43. Posted August 19, 2013. https://youtu.be/3hxQysS0hyA

The fuel cell produces direct current, which is then inverted to AC by an inverter. The inverter powers an AC electric motor to propel the vehicle. The inverter, the electric motor, and the vehicle’s DC-DC converter, which supplies power to
12V circuits, are all similar to such components, as found in hybrid and electric vehicles.

U.S. Department of Energy Alternative Fuels Data Center, “Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle”, in “How Do Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles Work Using Hydrogen?”. https://afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/how-do-fuel-cell-electric-cars-work.

A hydrogen fuel cell requires an air compressor to provide a steady supply of oxygen to the fuel cell’s cathode. The air must be filtered so that contaminants do not damage the fuel cell. Hydrogen sensors are typically mounted at various
places around the vehicle, including the passenger compartment, to monitor the system for any leaks that may occur.

On-board Hydrogen Fuel Storage

Hydrogen is the lightest element, and like most other gaseous fuels, must be compressed to high pressures to fit into in a fuel tank that is small enough for a powertrain. The most common hydrogen storage pressure today is 10,000
psi, although some vehicles have used lower tank pressures. The cylindrical tanks are typically made of aluminum or stainless steel, which is then wrapped in carbon fiber for added strength. As with all pressurized tanks for gaseousfueled
vehicles, hydrogen fuel tanks must be periodically inspected. Some vehicle manufacturers have experimented with cryogenic hydrogen fuel storage in which the fuel is stored at extremely low temperatures. At approximately –455º F or (–260º C), hydrogen becomes liquid and takes up less space than hydrogen gas. However, liquefying hydrogen consumes a significant amount of energy, and once liquefied, the hydrogen must be stored in an extremely well-insulated tank.

Interest in hydrogen as a renewable fuel source is growing rapidly around the globe. Major auto manufacturers are creating prototype models that are making hydrogen fuel a practical replacement for fossil fuels. Hydrogen has great promise for transportation applications.  However, hydrogen-powered vehicles are not widely offered to the general public at this time.  It has been estimated that it will take approximately ten to twenty years before hydrogen vehicles and the infrastructure needed to support them will begin to make an impact.

Though hydrogen-powered vehicles hold great promise, the production of hydrogen as a fuel continues to present significant challenges.  It will be some time before people across the United States can purchase hydrogen ICE or fuel cell vehicles.  Only time will tell what the future holds for hydrogen-fueled vehicles.

This task may be difficult if the vehicle has experienced extensive body damage or has major panels blocked by obstructions, as this could make it difficult to identify the vehicle through badging. The first responder should be prepared with alternative methods of identifying an alternative fuel vehicle other than vehicle badges and labels.

These methods may include:

• badging and labels (primary means of identification);
• non-standard dashboard layout and/or gauges;
• multiple or non-standard fueling ports;
• special underhood cables, warning labels, or equipment; and
• external fuel tanks (usually on heavy duty vehicles and light-duty pick-up
  trucks).

These propane tanks are visible from the outside of the vehicle and would alert first responders that the vehicle is fueled by something other than conventional gasoline or diesel. Credit: Propane Education and Research Council.

Once an alternative fuel vehicle has been identified at the incident scene, the first responder must inform all other emergency personnel of their findings so that they can safely and effectively perform their duties.

Design/VIN

Identifying an alternative fuel vehicle through the vehicle identification number (VIN) is possible, but not recommended. The content of the VIN varies by manufacturer and interpreting the information given in the VIN is difficult.

Another method to identify the vehicle is to look for characteristics of an AFV that are typically not found on non-AFV vehicles, such as a charge indicator on the dash, other AFV dash marking, or nonstandard or multiple fuel gauges.

First responders may also use an alternative fuel vehicle’s distinctive vehicle profile as a method of identification. Many manufacturers such as Nissan, Chevrolet, and Toyota give their alternative fuel vehicles a unique look to separate them from conventionally powered vehicles.

Fuel Ports

Alternative fuel vehicles usually have either non-standard fueling ports or charging outlets, or multiple fuel doors and ports, if it can operate on more than one fuel source. Looking into the fuel doors on a vehicle can often help identify the fuel or fuels that a vehicle is equipped to use.

This can be especially useful if the vehicle is an aftermarket conversion because the fueling ports may contain non-standard receptacles.

This natural gas fueling port would clue first responders to the alternative fuel inside the vehicle. Credit: NAFTC.

Electric Drive Vehicle Identification

Many manufacturers produce both an electric drive and conventionally powered version of the same vehicle. Both  ersions may look identical from the outside. The Ford Explorer, Honda Accord, and Toyota Camry are some examples of vehicles that are identical in appearance. Note that they may have an emblem or model number identifying them as an EV.

Some hybrid vehicles have a badge or emblem that indicates the presence of an electric vehicle system. Credit: NAFTC.

Some models do not use traditional EV emblems and may, like the Lexus, use only an “h” to signify the vehicle is a hybrid. Other makers use a badge emblem that could be easily removed by the owner. EV logos are usually found at the rear of the vehicle or on the front or rear doors, but on models where the logo appears only on the trunk or hatchback, the potential exists for it to become destroyed in a rear-end collision.

Emblems or high-voltage stickers may be found under the hood in the engine compartment. However, the fastest way to identify an EV other than badging is by the presence of orange and blue cables that may be visible under the hood or along the chassis outside of the passenger compartment. Another less obvious identification method includes finding visible battery vents. Because the continual discharge and recharge of the high-voltage battery system produces excess heat, designers have installed vents to help cool the batteries. Typically, only older models have visible vents. The early version of the Toyota Prius had a vent in the driver’s side “C” post. The Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner have vents on the driver’s side rear quarter glass.

Compressed Natural Gas Vehicle Identification

Some CNG vehicles may have a sticker or badge indicating their fuel. Credit: NAFTC.

Many CNG vehicles have a diamond-shaped blue decal with the lettering “CNG” on the side, trunk, tailgate, or cylinder areas, identifying the vehicle as capable of using CNG. Some manufacturers such as Honda have used an “NGV” emblem on the sides and trunk such as that of the Civic GX natural gas vehicle.

Liquefied Natural Gas Vehicle Identification

Often fleets that are proud of their cleaner transportation choices will use badges alterting customers of the fuel inside. Credit: NAFTC.

To help first responders and others accurately identify LNG vehicles, many such vehicles have a diamond-shaped blue decal with the lettering “LNG” on the side, trunk, tailgate or fuel tank areas, identifying the vehicle as capable of using LNG as a fuel source.

Liquefied Petroleum Gas Vehicle Identification

Many school districts use propane for bus fuel to cut down on local emissions and particulate matter. Credit: NAFTC.

Like CNG and LNG vehicles, many LPG vehicles also have a blue diamond-shaped decal with the lettering “Propane” on
the side or trunk, identifying it as being capable of being propelled by LPG.

Hydrogen Vehicle Identification

Hydrogen powered vehicles can also be identified by the blue diamond-shaped decal with the lettering “Hydrogen.” Also as hydrogen vehicles are very new to the marketplace, manufacturers may have them branded with large, often flashy labels that help identify them.

Biodiesel Vehicle Identification

There are no standards for the labeling of biodiesel powered vehicles. However, some manufacturers such as Volkswagen have used the letters “TDI” to denote that the Jetta runs on diesel. Ford uses the “Power Stroke” wording
or emblem and the F-250 label on the sides of its Super-Duty series trucks to denote that the truck runs on diesel
or biodiesel. Dodge uses its BlueTec emblem on its diesel powered vehicles.

Ethanol Vehicle Identification

Flex fuel vehicles are some of the most common alternative fuel vehicles and can run on higher percentages of ethanol. Credit: General Motors.

Many ethanol, or flexible fuel vehicles, have a symbol or emblem on the side or trunk of the vehicle showing that the vehicle is capable of utilizing ethanol. The emblem style and size can vary by manufacturer. Ethanol vehicles can sometimes be identified by the color of its gasoline tank cap. Many ethanol vehicles come equipped with a bright yellow cap, usually labelled with an “E85” statement.

This information is drawn from the Firefighter First Responder Safety Training course. Call the NAFTC at (304) 293-7882 or email naftc@mail.wvu.edu to learn how to schedule a first responder training in your area.

What is National AFV Day Odyssey?

An Odyssey event at the National Research Center for Coal and Energy at West Virginia University drew both students and employees to learn more about alternative fuel vehicles. Credit: NAFTC.

Odyssey is a nationwide celebration created by the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) to promote the use of alternative fuel vehicles across the United States.

Since Odyssey’s start, 699 events have been held across the U.S. with an attendance of more than 931,000 people. Additionally, Odyssey’s media reach has resulted in millions of views and impressions.

Odyssey events show consumers the importance of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles, and the role they play in protecting our environment and encouraging energy security through increased domestic fuel consumption.

The NAFTC encourages site hosts to tailor their event to meet the needs of their organization and their local resources.

Odyssey events take the form of local industry conferences, ride and drives, and vehicle displays. Some hosts choose to visit local schools or invite them to their facilities.

Why should I host an Odyssey event?

Odyssey events allow consumers to learn more about how alternative fuel vehicles work and their feasibility in everyday driving situations. Credit: NAFTC.

Odyssey provides hosts with the opportunity to showcase their program and facilities, while making a difference in public awareness of alternative fuel vehicles. Many NAFTC members use Odyssey as a recruitment event for their school’s automotive program.

Participation in alternative fuel events provides networking opportunities and establishes you as a leader in the AFV industry.

Events such as Odyssey help gain the attention of local elected officials to promote support for energy initiatives and environmental objectives. Among the public, Odyssey can help increase interest, understanding, and use of cleaner, more secure energy technologies.

How can I host an Odyssey event? (Seriously, isn’t this a lot of work?)

Odyssey is a great networking opportunity and a chance to introduce your organization to companies that you are interested in meeting. Credit: NAFTC.

The first step in hosting an Odyssey event is to complete the registration form. You will immediately receive an email pointing you to planning and marketing resources to help prepare for your event. If you have any questions, contact the NAFTC.

After that, you can get to work. Your event can take whatever form benefits your organization and area. If October 17 isn’t the best date for your organization to host an event, choose another one.

Following the event, you will need to complete a quick 10-minute survey to add your event to the national event summary.

Please join us for the 2019 event! To learn more about National AFV Day Odyssey, please visit afvdayodyssey.com. 

Attendees came from across the country to see the UNOH facilities and learn from industry experts leading dozens of workshops with topics ranging from electronics to diesel engines to alternative fuels. The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) taught an electric drive vehicle course to three different classes and brought our cutaway Prius to help illustrate concepts discussed in the classroom. The course was a condensed version of NAFTC’s four- or five-day curriculum devoted to electric drive and hybrid vehicles.

“Every year, the UNOH seminar is a highlight on our calendar,” says Micheal Smyth, NAFTC interim director. “In addition to the top-notch training that goes on every July, the UNOH faculty and staff hospitality can’t be beat. The institution is one of the top automotive schools in the country and I encourage instructors to attend next year’s event.”

UNOH has been a part of the NAFTC’s national consortium since its founding in 1992. Learn more about NAFTC members by visiting www.naftc.wvu.edu/training-centers.

“It’s so important that people understand that electric vehicles are just as safe as traditional vehicles, but have different maintenance requirements,” Smyth noted. “In many cases maintenance is much easier and maintenance costs are substantially lower for electric vehicles.”

The segment airs this Saturday (May 25) at 2:30 p.m. on West Virginia Public Broadcasting. Dates and times may vary and viewers should consult their local listings.

During the interview, Smyth and Goss discuss electric vehicle systems, best maintenance practices and current electric vehicle industry trends.

Micheal Smyth (l) explaining electric vehicle maintenance to Pat Gross on the PBS show “Motorweek” using NAFTC’s cutaway training Prius.

Smyth commented, “This segment of ‘Goss’ Garage’ will help demystify electric vehicle systems and allow us to reach the millions of viewers who tune in each week to learn about cleaner vehicles.”

NAFTC’s Hybrid Electric Vehicle Training Educator, also known as HEVTE, features prominently during the segment. HEVTE is a third generation, fully functional Toyota Prius with plexiglass panels over major components so they can be viewed directly during electric drive vehicle training or education events.

The NAFTC is a program of WVU’s Energy Institute. Founded in 1992, the NAFTC is the only nationwide training organization dedicated to educating the nation about alternative fuel vehicles through curriculum development, training implementation, and outreach and education activities.

“MotorWeek” is television’s longest-running automotive series and debuted in 1981 as the first weekly series to offer consumer-oriented car and truck reviews, do-it-yourself car care tips, and the latest auto industry news. “MotorWeek” airs on more than 240 public broadcasting stations nationwide.

The episode can also be viewed on “Motorweek’s” YouTube channel next week and will air on Motor Trend Network at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 4 and repeat at 12:30 p.m., Sunday, June 9.

The first step in this process has been to capture current classroom curricula for presentation in video and online formats. NAFTC Interim Director Micheal Smyth recently traveled to AVI’s headquarters in Fort Myers, Florida, to film an electric vehicle course.

“It was a pleasure to work with AVI in their state-of-the-art studio,” Smyth said. “With the proliferation of electric vehicles in the U.S., we are excited to help people learn more about their transportation options. While the AVI project doesn’t replace the hands-on classroom training of our electric vehicle course, it will help interested people better understand these vehicle technologies.”

During the March 10–16, 2019, filming session, Smyth was joined by Chris Womak, NAFTC’s first responder training specialist and a lieutenant in the Indianapolis Fire Department, to film three courses for firefighters and other first responders describing key concepts for how they should deal with AFV accidents.

The electric vehicle and first responder courses will be available through AVI later this summer.

Started in 1994, AVI provides automotive education videos and web-based content to service and repair centers, parts manufacturers, parts distributors, and automotive training institutions. Learn more about AVI by visiting www.aviondemand.com