Cloud based tools used to develop hydrogen fuel cell car

Ensuring design intent can carried through into the physical implementation, engineers can utilise the CAD’s integrated simulation capabilities. Allowing projects to transition easily into manufacture, Arcadia CAD interfaces with 3D MCAD and enterprise wide PLM and ERP tools. Databases and designs from many legacy systems can be quickly imported.

Powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the Riversimple vehicle is a two seater local network electric car made from composite materials. Engineers from automotive, aerospace and motor racing markets lead the R&D. Chris Reitz, former design chief for the Fiat 500, leads the design with his team at their studio in Barcelona. A vehicle with a fuel efficiency of more than 200mpg, a range of 300 miles, 0-30mph in 5.5 seconds and a cruising speed of 55mph is the team’s aim. Key to achieving this performance is the lightweight composite body, however, this does not offer a return path which makes electrical design more complex.

David Rothera, Vehicle Electronic Engineer, Riversimple, said, “We’re designing a radically new car – which will be in market trials late next year. It emits nothing but a tiny amount of water and will do more than the equivalent of 200mpg. The Arcadia tool is excellent in several respects, but what really stands out is the enthusiasm and support of the Cadonix team. This will be key for us as we address the very specific challenges of creating a ground-breaking vehicle and delivering it on time.”

Rothera added “Cloud based design is new for us but even at this early stage we’ve come to appreciate the flexibility of being able to access the design from anywhere. Arcadia is a flexible and intuitive tool, which will be fully able to address the need to include a return path, and other issues specific to the design of this unusual vehicle.”

Andrew Armstrong, Managing Director, Cadonix, commented, “Riversimple is developing a pioneering vehicle which may well set the tone for the automotive industry of the future. We are proud and delighted that they have chosen the Cadonix Arcadia environment for their hydrogen cell powered car. We look forward to working with them on this project.”