Tuesday 14 May 2013

New US initiative aims for cost-effective hydrogen EVs

New US initiative aims for cost-effective hydrogen EVs

A new public-private partnership to support more cost-effective transportation energy options for US consumers - including fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) – has been launched.

The H2USA initiative will focus on advancing hydrogen infrastructure and brings together automakers, Government agencies, gas suppliers and fuel cell industries to research and identify cost-effective solutions for clean hydrogen fuel in the country. It will also bring experts together to tackle key infrastructure challenges, including leveraging low cost natural gas resources.

FCEVs are seen as a way to cut emissions from cars and reduce the world's reliance on oil.

David Danielson, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the US Department of Energy said: “Fuel cell technologies are an important part of an all-of-the-above approach to diversify America’s transportation sector, reduce our dependence on foreign oil and increase our competitiveness in the global market.

“By bringing together key stakeholders from across the US fuel cell and hydrogen industry, the H2USA partnership will help advance affordable fuel cell electric vehicles that save consumers money and give drivers more options.”

The partnership also aims to encourage early adopters of FCEVs, conduct technical and market analysis and find alternative fuelling infrastructure that can help cut costs. The scheme was launched by the US Energy Department, whose research and development efforts have helped cut automotive fuel cell costs by more than 35% since 2008 and more than 80% since 2002.

Last month, ELN reported 1.6 million hydrogen-powered electric cars could hit UK roads by 2030.

Written by

Bruna Pinhoni

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