Cuba is facing a severe energy crisis following the halt of oil supplies from the United States and Venezuela in January. Consequently, gasoline is rationed, and power outages are widespread. On the black market, gasoline prices have soared to $8 per liter, six times the official state price.
Reuters reports a Cuban has converted a Fiat 126p to operate on coal.
Mechanic Juan Carlos Pino tackled fuel shortages by converting his 1980 Fiat 126p to run on coal. This is not a new technology; Juan was inspired by his late uncle and by World War II-era “holzgas” vehicles. He used recycled materials to build a new energy system, repurposing a 60-liter propane cylinder and using a balloon filled with old clothes as a filter. This system is attached to the car’s rear, with gas from burning charcoal replacing gasoline.
This vehicle has undergone various modifications. Its exterior boasts silver paint, tinted windows, and a roof rack labeled “AC Racing.” Inside, it features a metal-spoked steering wheel with a wooden rim and wooden dashboard elements. The car’s bright seat covers read “Polish Fiat,” earning Juan the nickname “Polaquito” among locals.
Are coal engines a solution to the fuel crisis?
Juan is pleased with his creation. During a test, he drove 85 km at 70 km/h. Despite preferring petrol, coal is his only option now. He announced plans to modify his tractor similarly, enabling fieldwork without fuel issues.
The coal-powered Fiat draws significant local interest, extending beyond drivers. The lack of electricity and generator fuel makes coal a potential local energy solution.
How does the Holzgas engine function?
Wood gas vehicle technology dates back to early internal combustion engines. The Holzgas generator addressed liquid fuel shortages. During World War II, the German army and pre-war Warsaw buses used wood gas-powered vehicles.
Wood gas, derived from any organic matter, was advantageous in fuel scarcity. However, its low calorific value and large installation size are drawbacks. Using charcoal, as Juan does, simplifies and reduces the system’s size, suitable for passenger cars.
Nevertheless, wood gas’s low calorific value still results in a 30-50 percent power reduction. The Fiat 126p, with a 2-cylinder, 652 cm3 engine producing 24 hp, delivers 12-17 hp on coal, assuming it retains factory specs. Despite modest power, tests confirm sufficient mobility.
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