New Study Says Fuel Cell Vehicles Face Technical and Policy Barriers

Environmental Defense senior fellow John DeCicco has released a comprehensive study of fuel cell vehicles published by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). A synopsis of the report, “Fuel Cell Vehicles: Technology, Market, and Policy Issues,” is available at www.environmentaldefense.org. Reporters can request an evaluation copy of the full report from SAE by calling 724-776-4841, ext. 7471.

While highlighting rapid progress in fuel cell research and the technology’s great promise, the study presents a reasoned view of the hurdles to be crossed before fuel cell vehicles can see market success. In light of the report’s findings, Environmental Defense calls on auto makers to take a more constructive stance on fuel economy standards and other policies that will pull advanced, energy-efficient technologies such as fuel cells into the market sooner.

“Compared to other long-run options,” said DeCicco, “fuel cells hold great promise to address multiple concerns, including air pollution, oil dependence, and global warming, while efficiently meeting car customers’ growing needs for on-board electricity.”

Several auto makers have committed to putting fuel cell vehicles on the road by 2005. Nevertheless, the report identifies a “deployability gap” of another 10-15 years before a business case can be made for mass-market fuel cell cars. “Closing this gap,” said DeCicco, “entails speeding up progress along several challenging technical pathways.” In addition to its in-depth technology assessment, a unique aspect of the study is its evaluation of fuel cell vehicles within the broader context of competing technologies, market trends, and pertinent public policies.

“Fuel cell technologies should receive a high priority for government research funding,” said Kevin Mills, director of Environmental Defense’s Clean Car Campaign. “Well-targeted tax incentives such as the Senate CLEAR Act (Cleaner Efficient Automobiles Resulting From Advanced Car Technologies) will also help advance clean vehicle technologies.”

The study finds that the absence of market-wide requirements for higher fuel economy blocks progress on many vehicle technologies, including fuel cells. “It is inconsistent for the industry to tout its work on fuel cells while fighting higher fuel economy standards,” said Mills.

Contact: John DeCicco 202 387-3500

David Cherry 202 387-3500