CAMP Professors Discuss Their Fuel Cell Research with GM Engineers continued from page 1
GM's Sequel
General Motors first introduced its hydrogen fuel cell propelled Chevrolet Sequel to the world in 2005. On May 15 th, 2007 GM’s Sequel set out from the GM Research Facility in Honeoye Falls, NY and traveled 300 miles to Tarrytown, NY. This milestone by GM according to Larry Burns, GM Vice President for Research and Development, is another step in the direction of commercializing the fuel cell vehicle. GM is in the process of producing over 100 Chevrolet Equinox fuel cell vehicles that will comprise a fleet of autos that will be studied for efficiencies. The fuel cell vehicles will be put into operation in the greater New York Metropolitan area and several other locations starting in the fall of 2007.
The current generation of GM Equinox fuel cell powered vehicles is designed to operate for 50,000 miles. It has been designed to handle conditions in the North East, with its freezing cycles and low temperatures. The present engine is capable of achieving a top speed of 100 miles per hour.
From a recent press release by GM, it was noted that the hydrogen fuel that powered the Fuel Cell Engine was produced utilizing hydroelectric power in Niagara Falls, NY. Since the product of combustion for the Equinox Fuel Cell is mainly water vapor, this makes the 300 mile trip from Honeoye Falls to Tarrytown, NY unique in that the fuel that is utilized and the products of combustion during this trip are environmentally friendly and contain virtually no carbon dioxide.
The GM Fuel Cell Team in Honeoye Falls, NY continues to work on advancements in the Fuel Cell design, materials of construction, catalysts and other areas. The goal is to produce an automobile that is clean burning, does not depend on oil for its energy source and is economical and competitive with today’s GM offerings.