EU-funded hybrid prototype fire kills two researchers

Two Italian researchers have died after suffering third-degree burns from the Volkswagen Polo TDI hybrid prototype that exploded in Naples.

The pair are testing technology to turn an existing internal combustion engine into a hybrid vehicle by adding an electric motor, battery pack and solar panels.

According to the Italian news agency ANSA The car was driven by Maria Prati, 66, and fellow researcher, Fulvio Filance, 25, both of whom work for the Italian National Research Council (CNR).

The newspaper reported that the vehicle exploded and caught fire on the Naples ring road, initially requiring both researchers to be hospitalized with third-degree burns.

Ms. Prati suffered burns to 90% of her body and later died from her injuries. Mr. Filace had a better chance of survival for his age, but he also died a few days after the accident.

Fabio Murena, professor and Prati’s husband, said: “We hope in the end that Fulvio can be saved. ANSA.

“We extend our condolences to family and friends.”

Prosecutors of the Republic of Naples and the Investigative Unit of the Naples Provincial Command are investigating the incident to find out what led to the explosion.

Since the incident, the project’s website has been “disabled”. The project is run by the Life-Save project and funded by the European Commission’s LIFE Program.