UKH2Mobility starts with three goals that should help the United Kingdom jump into the fuel-cell vehicle industry. Partners in UKH2Mobility will study the alternative energy sources proposed by British communities including hydrogen fuel cells. This research will focus on building the case for fuel cells based on emissions reduction, available technology and costs to the consumer. Another goal for UKH2Mobility is analyzing the costs of developing refueling stations and training service stations to handle fuel-cell drive systems. The initiative will also develop marketing efforts to highlight the potential enhancements for the British economy through job growth, manufacturing and natural resources extraction.

Industrial partners in UKH2Mobility represent global leaders in the automotive and energy industries. UKH2Mobility features contributions from Vauxhall Motors, Toyota, Tata Motors, Nissan, Hyundai and Daimler. This initiative also leverages expertise from The BOC Group, Scottish and Southern Energy, Intelligent Energy Limited and Air Liquide Hydrogen Energy. Officials from the Department for Energy and Climate Change, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department for Transport are coordinating these efforts. This public-private partnership should reduce barriers to mobilize fuel-cell technology over the next decade.

The British government has already gained expertise in the fuel-cell industry through the European Fuel Cells & Hydrogen Joint Undertaking. This partnership started on October 14, 2008 with the primary goal of facilitating commercial releases for fuel-cell vehicles by 2020. The Joint Undertaking also represents a connection to the European Union as the partnership was the first under the European Strategic Energy Technology Plan. UKH2 Mobility expands on the foundations of the Joint Undertaking while incorporating more businesses that have experience with hydrogen fuel cells. The United Kingdom represents an ideal proving ground for hydrogen vehicles given varied weather, traffic patterns and community sizes.

The Evoque HFI-R is based on the Land Rover Evoque powered by a 2.0-liter engine. This SUV has been converted to work with a Hybrid Fuel Injection (HFI) drive with a maximum output of 300bhp. Bigas International worked with Florence University’s Department of Energy to create the HFI dual-fuel system. This system allows the use of natural gas, hydrogen or a carefully calibrated mixture of both fuels to extend range while limiting emissions. The HFI drive uses controllers, an RI27J pressure reducer and electronics to manage fuel flow. Researchers at Bigas International and Florence University successfully concluded tests within the past month dealing with vehicle safety, emissions and fuel efficiency.

Marangoni’s contribution to this project is a newly designed tire called the M-Power EvoRed. These tires stand apart from the competition not only for their red tint but their eco-friendly design. The first generation of the M-Power EvoRed uses a high percentage of silica to decrease rolling resistance throughout their lifetime. Representatives from Marangoni note that the M-Power EvoRed cuts down on fuel consumption and lasts longer than comparable tires due to their advanced design. Performance metrics for the Evoque HFI-R include a 621-mile range made possible because of the Marangoni/Bigas collaboration.

This concept vehicle might only seem like an experiment but work done by Marangoni and Bigas International should be noticed by the auto industry. These firms used an existing vehicle body, replaced components to reduce environmental impact and made a splash at Bologna. Automakers have spent considerable time developing vehicle bodies that reduce weight, height and environmental impact to offset sluggish growth in drive technology. Marangoni and Bigas have internationalized the retrofitting process used by tinkerers and smaller firms over the past three decades. The Evoque HFI-R should draw copycats by manufacturers worldwide that want to take advantage of existing body designs while experimenting with new technology.

Details regarding the Toyota FCV-R point to a green vehicle with performance and design features that appeal to the average consumer. Toyota announced an estimated range of 435 miles thanks to advancements in fuel-cell capacity. The 70 megapascal (MPa) tank installed in the FCV-R not only improves total range from previous prototypes but also reduces tank size and weight. This four-seat sedan features a large trunk that allows drivers to take long road trips and handle multiple errands.

The Toyota Aqua Hybrid provides an alternative to the Prius for budget-conscious consumers. The Aqua Hybrid achieves high fuel economy thanks to an efficient 1.5-liter gas engine, a low profile and a body that measures less than 10 feet long. Toyota estimates that this prototype can achieve fuel mileage of 94 miles per gallon based on lab testing. The diminutive frame does not deprive drivers of sufficient cargo space, leg room and head room needed during daily commutes. The Aqua Hybrid is slated for release throughout Japan by the end of December with a 2012 global release to be announced soon.

Prototypes like the FT-EV II show that Toyota has a clear vision for the next generation of green transportation. The FT-EV II uses a lithium-ion battery pack and compact body to achieve a total range of 65 miles per charge. This concept represents Toyota’s foray into city cars that could be introduced in Japan by the end of 2012. Toyota also touts the Fun-Vii as a prototype EV that uses wireless communications and customizable features to create unique driving experiences without fossil fuels. The automaker also plans a demonstration of the Prius Plug-in hybrid during the show, which is the inaugural presentation of the model in Japan.

The heart of the AFCB is the FCvelocity-HD6 fuel cell system developed by Ballard Power at its headquarters in Lowell, Massachusetts. This sixth-generation system can generate up to 150kW thanks to collaboration between fuel cells and a lithium-ion battery pack. Ballard Power touts the FCvelocity-HD6 as ideal for public transit as the system requires little technical expertise to install or maintain. The FCvelocity-HD6 comes with a five-year or 12,000-hour warranty as well as a lower retail price than previous models.

The AFCB draws on technology developed by Eldorado and BAE Systems to achieve low emissions as well as high fuel economy. The 40-foot Eldorado body combines roominess for passengers with ample space for fuel cells and other drive components. BAE Systems worked with Ballard Power to adjust the HybriDrive power management system to work with the FCvelocity-HD6. SunLine Transit Agency has invested in alternative fuel vehicles since 1994 and has worked with CARB and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to test fuel economy standards for public transportation. Agency representatives also note that the AFCB required the addition of ten full-time employees and years of work to complete.

This collaboration with the Federal Transit Administration provides a model for green public transit in the next generation. SunLine Transit Agency used federal funds to develop a bus that qualifies for Buy America certification by a wide margin. The standard for this federal certification is that 60% of a product’s components were developed in the United States. SunLine and corporate partners achieved a 90% standard, showing that American producers need not look overseas for advanced vehicle technology. Current economic circumstances have forced municipalities to consider short-term costs rather than long-term rewards in public transit. SunLine Transit Agency will hopefully act as an example of how public transit can boost jobs, serve an eager customer base and foster public-private partnerships.

The future of automotive technology could resemble the Mercedes-Benz F125! presented during the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. This plug-in hybrid concept swaps out diesel for hydrogen while providing more than 600 miles of driving range. The F125! represents the automaker’s view of the industry beyond 2025 though the concept is unlikely to reach the production phase. Mercedes-Benz used the number 125 to honor the progress made over 125 years of automobiles. This research vehicle couples sophisticated drive components, lightweight body construction and driver assistance tools that could appear in the next generation of vehicles.

The F125! combines a 7.5kg hydrogen fuel-cell stack with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 170kW. Mercedes-Benz developed stack architecture with Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) that are integrated into the vehicle’s body. This architecture reduces stack weight significantly, lowers the stack’s center of gravity and ensures safe operation. Designers capped the vehicle’s maximum speed at 137 miles per hour with a potential range of 621 miles. Mercedes-Benz estimated that the F125! can hit 60 miles per hour from a dead stop in 4.9 seconds. The projected fuel economy rating for the F125! is 87 miles per gallon.

Mercedes-Benz joined the pack at Frankfurt by highlighting the vehicle’s lightweight body construction. The hydrogen fuel-cell stack offsets weight and aerodynamic concerns thanks to the inclusion of MOFs. The design team developed a production method that combines carbon fiber, aluminum and steel within the body. This innovative approach would allow the F125! to pass European and American safety tests while increasing fuel economy through decreased weight. Mercedes-Benz also noted that the gull-wing doors ensure passenger comfort and fit into the vehicle’s sleek body design.

Visitors to the F125! display were treated to an explanation of driver assistance tools intended for safer travel. The Advanced Driving Assist tool could provide automatic lane shifts based on sudden changes in traffic and road conditions. The Car-to-X communications system would connect the F125! to other vehicles, street signals and public systems through wireless technology. This technology could reduce traffic congestion and simplify daily commutes for drivers. Mercedes-Benz might be the furthest among Frankfurt participants from producing its research entry but the F125! shows the abundant promise of green technology.

The infrastructure needed for hydrogen vehicles should grow significantly by 2020 according to a recent Pike Research report. “Hydrogen Infrastructure” estimates that 5,200 hydrogen refueling stations will be operational around the world in the next decade. This estimate contrasts starkly with a meager 200 refueling stations worldwide in 2010. Analyst Lisa Jerram notes that infrastructure should range from corporate campus stations for trucks and machinery to service stations for passenger vehicles. The primary factors in encouraging future growth in hydrogen infrastructure are expanded adoption of light-duty vehicles (LDVs) and forklifts running on fuel cells.

“Hydrogen Infrastructure” anticipates total demand for hydrogen fuel worldwide at 418 million kilograms in 2020. Current demand for hydrogen fuel is estimated around 775,000 kilograms according to Pike Research. Jerram assumed a compounded annual growth rate of 88% between 2010 and 2020 to reach this figure. The projection shows sluggish growth until 2014 with demand only reaching 55 million kilogram by 2015. To achieve higher global demand, corporations and governments will need to invest $1.6 billion per year by 2020 with a total investment of $8.4 billion.

Refueling stations will no doubt be distributed across several sectors to achieve Pike Research’s estimated demand figure. The majority of hydrogen demand in the transportation sector will come from fleet operators operating fuel-cell vehicles. Another source of hydrogen demand should be energy companies operating refueling stations akin to existing gas stations. Pike Research also notes demand from local hydrogen suppliers currently experimenting with hydrogen generators for consumer use. A small portion of future fuel demand could come from stores interested in selling solid-state refueling cartridges.

Warehouse equipment including forklifts and combines could represent the leading sources of hydrogen fuel consumption by 2020. “Hydrogen Infrastructure” notes that 36% of the total fuel-cell vehicle market could be driven by commercial machinery. The aforementioned LDVs represent a potential 33% of hydrogen fuel demand by 2020 including cars and light trucks used by consumers and corporate fleets. Jerram estimated that 27% of fuel demand would come from refueling stations in need of uninterrupted power supplies. The remaining 4% of hydrogen demand by 2020 should come from buses, scooters and motorcycles. This long-term view on hydrogen fuel infrastructure shows not only the potential for this energy source but the need for diverse transportation options. The simultaneous development of hydrogen, electric, natural gas and hybrid vehicles would avoid the pitfalls of putting the world’s energy needs into a single fuel source.

Pike Research recently released a report reviewing the top producers of fuel-cell vehicles throughout the world. The “Pike Pulse Report: Light-Duty Fuel Cell Vehicles” analyzes current research and vehicle development by ten manufacturers of fuel-cell models. Analysts with Pike Research determined that Daimler was the most advanced producer of fuel-cell vehicles with Honda, Toyota, Hyundai-Kia and General Motors falling within the top five. This report followed a similar format to a Pike Pulse Report published this summer ranking manufacturers of EV chargers.

This report assessed fuel-cell vehicle manufacturers on 12 criteria ranging from research and development to pricing. Automakers were evaluated on their business acumen including market share, market strategy and public/private partnerships. Pike Research also reviewed each automaker’s product portfolio and innovation strategy to determine the future of fuel-cell vehicles. Additional criteria dealt with the demand side of the market including vehicle pricing and brand durability. Each automaker was given a total score on a scale of 100 points.

Daimler’s ascendancy to the top of the fuel-cell market comes from a clearly defined path toward greener vehicles. The automaker achieved a total score of 69.9 based on strength in market strategy, innovation and partnerships. Pike Research pointed out government partnerships as well as a recently announced collaboration with Linde to develop fuel-cell infrastructure as benefits to Daimler. This high ranking comes with a caveat, however, as analysts note that adjustments to vehicle production timetables could decrease Daimler’s standing.

Honda was the runner-up (66.7) in Pike’s fuel-cell analysis because of its enduring investment in the technology. The Japanese automaker has spent the past decade developing a fuel-cell drive system as well as the Clarity FCV. Pike Research also rewarded Honda with higher scores because of its efforts to develop infrastructure and prepare consumers for fuel-cell cars. The lingering issue for Honda is that a decade of research has yet to yield a mass commercialization of the Clarity FCV.

The above graphic shows that Pike Research seems confident about the future of fuel-cell vehicles. No automaker was able to break into the Leaders category in the upper right corner. Pike Research also kept automakers out of the Followers category in the lower left corner. The top five automakers were dotted within the Contenders section of the graphic with Daimler closest to becoming a Leader. “Pike Pulse Report” noted that automakers like Riversimple, BMW and SAIC Motor Corp. were still Challengers due to their limited appeal and sluggish development. Words of caution throughout the report should not quell optimism that Daimler, Honda and other fuel-cell automakers leap ahead in the next generation.

The EcoCAR Challenge sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will conclude this June with final presentations in Washington, D.C. This three-year competition challenged 16 university teams from the United States and Canada to develop fuel-efficient drive systems using General Motors vehicles. Officials at the DOE along with more than 25 sponsors have built off the federal government’s Advanced Vehicle Technology Competitions dating back to 1988. As EcoCAR Challenge: The Next Challenge ends, the DOE and private corporations have announced EcoCAR2: Plugging into the Future. This announcement took place at the 2011 SAE World Congress in Detroit, Michigan.

Participants in EcoCAR2: Plugging into the Future include three Canadian universities from Ontario and British Columbia. The remaining participants include major research universities like Penn State, Colorado State and the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. Every team will spend the next three years incorporating alternative fuel technology into a prototype version of the 2013 Chevy Malibu. EcoCAR teams adhere to the GM Vehicle Development Process, which requires the perfect balance of performance, driving comfort, safety and handling.

The primary goal of EcoCAR2 participants is the reduction of fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by replacing fossil fuels with alternative sources. The DOE and GM note that university teams will draw from sources including B20, hydrogen fuel cells and electricity to achieve these aims. The challenge’s first year includes design work and computer simulations prior to drive-system development in the second year. The final year of EcoCAR2 is spent converting schematics into production models prior to testing during the concluding event. Each phase of EcoCAR2 includes judging that results in more than $100,000 in prizes issued to the most successful teams.

Corporate sponsorship of EcoCAR2: Plugging into the Future is integral to leveraging the considerable intellectual capacity of participants. GM is considered a co-sponsor of the event and provides vehicles and testing facilities to university teams. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) works with team organizers to ensure that vehicle designs meet emissions standards. Manufacturers like A123 Systems provide hardware, technical expertise and training to ensure that early designs evolve into practical solutions. The U.S. DOE is working with Natural Resources Canada to share data from EcoCAR2 that could inform federal transportation policy. The immediate transition from EcoCAR to EcoCAR2 shows a continued interest in developing advanced automotive technologies in North America.

The 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show allowed Honda to generate interest for the Honda Fit EV slated for 2012. This all-electric version of the popular Fit coupe represents a first step along Honda’s Road to Zero Emissions. Honda has articulated this vision during events in the past year with concept versions of the Honda Fit EV and the Honda FCX Clarity. The newest additions to the Road to Zero Emissions display are the Honda EV Concept as well as a plug-in hybrid platform to be featured at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

Observers of the Honda Concept EV notice similarities with the onboard tools offered by Ford. This concept vehicle would achieve a per-charge range of 100 miles based on early testing. Honda announced that the Concept EV and production vehicles based on this concept would use coaching tools to increase vehicle range. These tools include video tutorials on proper braking, accelerating and handling techniques that reduce energy consumption. The Concept EV also features visualizations of energy consumption and system performance similar to the Ford Smart Gauge with EcoGuide. Honda did not mention a release date for any vehicle based directly on the concept though there is overlap with the 2013 Fit EV.

The plug-in hybrid platform at Geneva is similar to the system that made an appearance at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. Honda built the platform with two electric motors and an efficient gas engine that could be used for range extension. This platform also uses a regenerative braking system that could reduce fuel consumption at low speeds. Future plug-in hybrids by Honda like the CR-Z Hybrid would offer three drive options ranging from all-gas for long trips to all-electric for short commutes. Honda plans integration of the plug-in hybrid platform into a handful of models starting in 2012.

Honda’s Road to Zero Emissions display at Geneva shows a unified vision for green vehicles that could be mobilized around the world. The Honda Fit EV and the Concept EV allow the automaker to offer zero-emissions vehicles at various price points. Honda’s plug-in hybrid platform provides an intermediate step between traditional cars and electric vehicles over the next generation. The FCX Clarity shows Honda’s commitment to alternative fuels like hydrogen that could be produced with little expense. The Road to Zero Emissions isn’t paved yet by municipalities, utilities and national governments but is likely to be traversed by Honda vehicles.

Republicans and Democrats were on board with promoting alternative fuels prior to the 2007 market meltdown. Former President George W. Bush and a Republican Congress created the FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership in 2002. FreedomCAR was created to develop green vehicle technology and infrastructure to reduce America’s dependence on fossil fuels. This program receives support from America’s Big Three automakers as well as leading fuel companies like Exxon Mobil, Shell and BP America. The resurgent Republican Party that took over the House this month has proposed cuts to this program.

House Republicans recently proposed $2.5 trillion in spending cuts including $200 million for the FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership. This reduction would seriously cripple FreedomCAR given that the program’s 2010 budget was $333 million. Republicans also want to cut the federal government’s vehicle budget by 20%, representing an annual savings of $600 million per year. These cuts are eclipsed by a proposed $7.5 billion cut for the government’s travel budget, which covers reimbursement and travel costs for officials. Supporters of fuel-efficient vehicles in the Republican Party will likely ask states and private interests to support green vehicle endeavors in place of the federal government.

These cuts would counteract the Obama administration’s two-year effort to promote plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles. President Obama announced in 2009 that he wanted one million plug-in hybrids on American roads by 2015. The White House received $300 million in the federal stimulus program to invest in fuel-efficient vehicles for the federal fleet. Democrats in Congress also approved $2.4 billion in grants for battery development and $25 billion for subsidized loans on consumers purchases of fuel-efficient vehicles. The progress made toward the 2015 goal would be diminished significantly if Republicans successfully cut FreedomCAR’s budget.

FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership is a crucial program for a country in serious need of a more diverse transportation system. This initiative created technology roadmaps going back to 2003 with goals for manufacturers and researchers focused on advanced vehicle technology. Researchers participating in the FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership covered a broad spectrum of ideas from vehicle-to-grid communication to hydrogen fuel cells. The 21st Century Truck Partnership within FreedomCAR sought to create sustainable technology for civilian and military trucking. House Republicans are proposing cuts to FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership along with other relatively low-cost programs to avoid touching the military budget, Social Security or Medicare.