This application relates to a hybrid power supply apparatus including a
fuel cell and an energy storage device for use in off-road electric
vehicles, such as lift trucks. The apparatus is a substitute for
conventional lead acid batteries and is sized to fit within a
conventional lift truck battery receptacle tray. The fuel cell and fuel
processor systems are designed to meet the average load requirements of
the vehicle, while the batteries and power control hardware are capable
of responding to very high instantaneous load demands. The invention has
a similar electrical interface as conventional battery systems and does
not require vehicle modification. The apparatus is air-cooled to ensure
that the hybrid power components operate within a preferred temperature
range and to maintain the external surfaces of the apparatus and exhaust
gases within safe temperature limits. Apart from vehicular applications,
low power hybrid fuel cell products as exemplified by the present
invention may also find application in uninterruptable power supply
systems, recreational power, off-grid power generation and other
analogous applications.