Toyota promises ‘affordable’ hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle

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Toyota promises ‘affordable’ hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle

Posted on Tuesday, January 12th, 2010 at 10:28 AM EST.(Employee News)

Toyota announced on Monday that it plans to begin public sales of an “affordable,” highly fuel-efficient, zero emission hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle in the United States by 2015 – or sooner, if refueling infrastructure becomes available, The New York Times reported.

Toyota previously announced plans, with the California Fuel Cell Partnership, to develop a network of at least 46 public refueling stations in four southern California communities, the Times said.

American Honda is also a partner in the program. Since 2008, its FCX Clarity fuel-cell vehicle has been available in limited numbers for lease in the Los Angeles area, according to the paper. At a press conference at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Toyota also announced that it is starting a pilot program in California and New York to place in service “more than 100” Toyota fuel-cell hybrids, called the FCHV-advanced, the Times said.

Toyota has reported rapid advancement in the car’s capabilities and says models in testing achieve fuel economy equivalent to 68 miles per gallon, and a range of 431 miles, on a single fill of compressed hydrogen gas, according to the paper. (New York Times)