Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles

In January 2003, President Bush stated his support for initiatives to research and develop hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for commercial use. In April 2004, Governor Schwarzenegger signed an executive order to create a “Hydrogen Highway”: i.e., build a network of hydrogen filling stations throughout the state of California, thus making it practical to use hydrogen-powered cars. Of course, these vehicles already exist, mostly as test cars built by almost every major car manufacturer, either independently or as part of a collaborative effort, and some cities use them for civic service. But why aren't more hydrogen fuel cell cars on America's roads? Are they too dangerous? Too expensive? Exactly, what are hydrogen fuel cells and how do they work? Interviewing a variety of experts, from engineers at Toyota to professors and politicians, Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles answers these and other questions related to safety, emissions, and efficiency. Although offering a good introduction to hydrogen fuel cell technology and its implications, the program unfortunately doesn't adequately address the biggest obstacles to progress: namely, how to cheaply and cleanly produce the hydrogen (especially without using fossil fuels), and make fuel cell stacks affordable. Still, with dependence on foreign oil becoming a growing concern, and a massive rise in the popularity of “green” vehicles such as the new hybrids, more people are starting to think about clean energy and transportation alternatives, making this an appropriate and timely overview. Recommended. Aud: J, H, P. (E. Gieschen)