Hobbies And Interests
Application
Upgrade kits are manufactured to convert existing RC cars to hydrogen fuel cell systems. These can replace battery-powered or gas engines used to run the RC technology. Hydrogen-powered cars are also available, preloaded with the hydrogen-based fuel cells.
Cost
Hydrogen-powered cars are significantly more expensive than battery-powered cars. As of 2010, the only hydrogen-powered remote control, the H2go by Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies, retailed for $149.99 new. Battery-powered remote control cars, with the same 1:18 scale, retail for an average of $35 dollars new.
Power
A standard rechargeable battery pack typically provides 5 to 10 minutes of drive time at full speed between charges. Hydrogen cells are capable of running up to 60 minutes between fuelings.
Speed
Speed capacity in both battery- and hydrogen-powered cars are similar. Battery-powered cars run at top speeds of approximately 20 to 30 miles per hour. A hydrogen-powered car runs at 22 miles per hour.