Honda, GM to collaborate on fuel-cell technology
Global auto giants, General Motors and Honda Motor Co., have announced that they will collaborate to develop and mass-produce fuel-cell systems and hydrogen storage technologies. The aim is to have this technology trickle down onto the roads by 2020.
The collaboration expects to succeed by sharing expertise, economies of scale and common sourcing strategies. It will also give the two carmakers an upper-hand over rivals Toyota Motor Corp. and Nissan Motor Co., when it comes to green technology for the future.
GM vice chairman Steve Girsky announces a long-term, definitive master agreement between GM and Honda
Hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery-powered vehicles are the technologies of the future. GM and Honda are global leaders in fuel cell technology and they plan to work with stakeholders to create and improve refueling infrastructure. It is this that will play a huge role in the acceptance and improved viability of fuel cell technology.
"This collaboration builds upon Honda and GM's strengths as leaders in hydrogen fuel cell technology. We are convinced this is the best way to develop this important technology, which has the potential to help reduce the dependence on petroleum and establish sustainable mobility," said Dan Akerson, Chairman and CEO, GM.
Since 2002, Honda has released 85 fuel cell vehicles. In 2007, GM had a fleet of 119 hydrogen-powered Chevy Equinox crossovers tested in the US. These numbers speak a lot about the potential this tie-up holds for future technology.
Fuel-cell powered cars use electricity coming from a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in the fuel-cells. Electric motors drive the car and batteries store the energy. What is emitted through the exhaust is water vapor (not steam).
"As the two established leaders in advanced fuel cell technology, when we combine our talents and expertise, we believe that together we can and will accomplish more than anyone else can," said GM Vice Chairman Steve Girsky.
