General Motors and Honda have announced plans to jointly develop next-generation fuel cell system and hydrogen storage technologies, with the partners aiming for a market launch of 2020. The collaboration expects to succeed by sharing expertise, economies of scale and common sourcing strategies. In addition, the two car makers plan to work together with stakeholders to further advance refueling infrastructure, which is critical for the long-term viability and consumer acceptance of fuel cell vehicles.
“This collaboration builds upon Honda and GM’s strengths as leaders in hydrogen fuel cell technology,” said Dan Akerson, GM chairman and CEO. “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.”
Takanobu Ito, president and CEO of Honda, added: “Among all zero CO2 emission technologies, fuel cell electric vehicles have a definitive advantage with range and refueling time that is as good as conventional gasoline cars. Honda and GM are eager to accelerate the market penetration of this ultimate clean mobility technology, and I am excited to form this collaboration to fuse our leading fuel cell technologies and create an advanced system that will be both more capable and more affordable.”
GM’s Project Driveway program, launched in 2007, has accumulated nearly three million miles of real-world driving in a fleet of 119 hydrogen-powered vehicles, more than any other car maker. Honda began leasing of the FCX in 2002 and has deployed 85 units in the USA and Japan, including its successor, the FCX Clarity. Honda has delivered these vehicles to the hands of customers in the USA and collected valuable data concerning real-world use of fuel cell electric vehicles. Honda plans to launch the successor of FCX Clarity in Japan and the USA in 2015, and then in Europe. GM will announce its fuel cell production plans at a later date.
