The Hydrogen xc-smartdrive has evolved from over ten years of development. Originally aimed at providing cost-effective heating for buildings, it has grown—through intensive research, countless experiments, and extensive test setups—into an exceptionally versatile and high-performance machine. The research and development work began as a private initiative by Reinhard Preiss. At the time, it was not foreseeable that the first simple prototype would one day become a highly efficient and innovative drive engine.

The first experimental setup with a Hydrogen xc-smartdrive dates back to 2021. The initial model was a 3-cylinder engine

Over eleven years ago, the first practical experiments began – starting with a self-built hydrogen heater. The technology was fascinating: stones glowed, metal melted. But the energy balance was disappointing – the efficiency was even lower than that of a simple electric heater. It became clear: hydrogen only makes sense when used efficiently.

In the years that followed, various electrolysis systems were developed to generate hydrogen more efficiently. Despite technical improvements, energy consumption remained high – too high compared to direct electricity use. A central challenge had emerged: how can hydrogen production and usage be optimized?

Experiments followed to use hydrogen in a classic gasoline engine – for both drive and heat. But the result was unsatisfactory: the engine ran unevenly, misfires occurred, and hot steam condensed too quickly on the cool cylinder walls. Even fuel mixtures with gasoline, air, and hydrogen brought no improvements. The conclusion: a pure hydrogen engine is needed – no compromises.

This led to a deep exploration of the complete hydrogen cycle: electrolysis, combustion, water recovery. Hydrogen is a fuel that can regenerate within milliseconds. Inspired by Viktor Schauberger – who spoke of implosion as a creative force – a new idea was born: A machine that combines controlled explosion with directed implosion. This vision became the foundation of the Hydrogen xc-smartdrive .

A major breakthrough was the departure from classic piston engines with oil-lubricated metal pistons. For a clean hydrogen system, a new path was required – the solution was a fluid-based piston mechanism . Early tests with a single-cylinder design revealed great potential. A more advanced multi-cylinder system was developed – without the need for intermediate storage.

The next step was transforming the cylinder itself into a heat exchanger. Instead of letting hot steam escape, it would be converted into usable heat and reintegrated into the system. Although initial trials were still imprecise, the concept worked. Another experiment showed great promise: the direct generation of HHO gas from the machine’s fluid loop. An almost ideal form of fuel supply – integrated, efficient, and clean.

In 2021, the first functional prototype of the xc-smartdrive was built. It worked – but it also revealed a limitation: three cylinders were not enough to condense all the steam. These insights were incorporated into future development. Over the following years, the system was further improved, especially the electrolysis unit, the heat exchanger, and the fluid flow design.

Today, the knowledge and foundation are in place to take the next step. All experiences, setbacks, and insights have contributed to the new Hydrogen xc-smartdrive . The system is now ready for its next phase – and is intended as an open-source technology to benefit people around the world. However, comprehensive research and development are still needed to turn this prototype into a technically refined, professionally usable machine.

A Joint Effort for a Shared Future No one can realize such an ambitious project alone. It takes a skilled team, experienced suppliers – and above all, the active support of a dedicated community. Too many great ideas fail due to unsolved technical details or lack of support. We are determined to avoid that fate. This is why the association Scouts of Spirit follows a consistent open-source development approach. We rely on transparency, openly share both successes and challenges, and encourage community involvement. In return, we guarantee that all project documentation and results will be made freely available after completion – enabling replication, improvement, and further innovation by the public. Versatility and Future Potential Hydrogen can do far more than just burn. Its unique physical properties allow for the transformation of widely available ambient heat into useful drive energy and thermal output – cleanly and renewably. The Hydrogen xc-smartdrive is a prime example of this potential . It is not limited to hydrogen applications: it can also serve as a high-pressure compressor with integrated heat recovery or as a hermetic steam engine for efficient power generation from low-temperature heat. This journey is only just beginning

Schauberger recognized the power of implosion in nature - as the creative counterpart to explosion. His concepts of vortex motion, suction, and pressure inspired the Hydrogen xc-smartdrive.

Reinhard Preiss Inventor and project manager of the Hydrogen xc-smartdrive