GM Aims to Implement Hydrogen Fuel Cells in Planes and Boats Alongside Cars
For years, researchers have been exploring the potential of hydrogen fuel cells as an environmentally friendly energy option. These fuel cells generate electricity through a reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, offering a clean and emission-free energy source in theory. While the technology is not yet fully practical, General Motors (GM) remains committed to advancing fuel cell development in the long term.
GM recently announced a $35 million investment in its fuel cell research and development teams to work towards creating a commercially viable electric vehicle powered by fuel cells by 2025. The company believes in the potential of fuel cells to serve as a power source for various land vehicles, both commercial and military. In addition to this focus, GM has expressed interest in expanding the use of this technology to other modes of transportation, including boats, planes, railways, and more.
Charlie Freese, GM’s fuel cell lead, shared with CNBC, “Batteries have their place, but for full electrification across a range of applications, hydrogen fuel cells are essential. They complement each other effectively.”
“While each market presents unique challenges, the global trend is towards electrification,” Freese continued. “The cost of fuel cell technology has decreased significantly and continues to do so.”
General Motors to help build hydrogen-powered jetshttps://t.co/mmYjv9FWTA
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GM has been forming partnerships and agreements with various companies interested in fuel cells, such as Nikola and Navistar. They also have future contracts with the US military for vehicles like trucks and submersibles powered by fuel cells.
“We are approaching this from land, sea, and air perspectives,” Freese explained. “Energy storage density for long missions, rapid refueling, silent operation, stealth, and low heat generation are crucial aspects in these applications. These principles also apply to other industries.”
