The system works through a device, called the ezero, to dispense on-demand hydrogen directly into the fuel-air mix. The device comes in three variants: the ezero1 for cars and small vans; the ezeroH1 for small coaches and LCVs in the 7.5-tonne range; and the ezeroH2 for HGVs and buses.
The 100% recyclable ezero hydrogen additive box is fitted within the engine bay and can be used on any fossil fuel engine, from petrol to diesel to LPG.
The hydrogen is created by electrolysis in a method devised by former nuclear submariner Brian Sheard. A type of titanium with a special coating is used for the cathode and anode – when combined with the electrolyte solution, it generates hydrogen at a low current with no hazardous by-products. The hydrogen generated is a powerful ‘ortho hydrogen’, which burns more quickly and promotes complete combustion.
No hydrogen is stored on board: the ezero box is topped up every 6,000 miles with CGON’s patented electrolyte solution. A 250ml pouch costs £5.
The smallest variant, the ezero1, has been independently tested on the road by Emissions Analytics. For the urban drive cycle, PEMS testing has shown reductions of 91.3% in particulates plus a 47.9% reduction in NOx and a 50.6% reduction in NO2.
CGON says it takes about one hour to fit the ezero1, which costs £459 including VAT and fitting.
Simon Johnson, CEO of CGON, says: “We have completed testing of hundreds of vehicles at certified MOT stations and recorded an average 80% reduction in overall emissions... Independent testing by Emissions Analytics verifies our own testing, showing a huge reduction in emissions.”