Fuel Cell Update: Chrysler Working With California Partnership
Jan 31, 2008 at 10:36AM

Reg Modlin

By Reg Modlin

Director of Environmental and Energy Planning

I’m proud to announce that Chrysler is the newest member of the California Fuel Cell Partnership (CaFCP). The CaFCP is a collaboration of 34 organizations including auto manufacturers, energy providers, fuel cell technology companies and government agencies working together to promote the commercialization of hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles.

People are sometimes surprised to find out that Chrysler has been actively pursuing zero-emissions vehicles since 1998, well before our merger with Daimler. Our company has a proud history of engineering innovation, and our efforts to develop zero-emission vehicles are no exception.

One of the most exciting developments in this arena are hydrogen fuel cells, which produce no pollution and offer a wonderful mix of performance and practicality. Chrysler pioneered this technology, which releases energy from the reaction of hydrogen with a catalyst and oxygen, a true zero-emission process.


In fact, Chrysler first built the Natrium concept back in 1998. The Natrium was the first functional fuel cell-powered vehicle with on-board hydrogen reformation.

This concept was based on the popular Chrysler Town & Country minivan. The on-board reformation system addressed the issues with range and storage of hydrogen gas by accumulating hydrogen in a solid form and releasing it when needed. This was only the beginning.

When Chrysler and Daimler merged, the newly formed company operated the largest fuel cell vehicle fleet in the world — more than 100 fuel cell vehicles gaining valuable practical experience through day-to-day operations.

Hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles emit pure water vapor as exhaust. Fuel cell systems are part of Chrysler’s advanced-propulsion technology umbrella, which includes efficient gasoline engines, advanced diesels and hybrid powertrain systems.

Our first focus when it comes to any new technology is ensuring its safety. We apply that focus to hydrogen-fueled vehicles, and it directs everything we do. We understand how crucial it is that consumers feel safe when they’re traveling with hydrogen fuel in their tank, when they’re fueling up at the pump – really, whenever they interact with hydrogen fuel.

The public hasn’t had the opportunity to really understand this fuel yet, which is something we’re working hard to correct. Hydrogen fuel could play an important role in diversifying our zero-emission offerings and reducing our nation’s dependence on foreign oil, as well as complement other green technologies we’re pursuing. Despite the public’s interest in renewable fuels, there is often a technological adversity that accompanies strong demand in the market.

Put simply, most people would prefer to let their neighbor try out new technology, hydrogen fuel cells, for example, before they would consider using it. This is equally true for hydrogen fuel, and it’s a big obstacle to overcome. We must educate the policy makers that help shape its opinion.

As we approach these questions, there are also some practical issues that could stall development and require further inquiry.

For example, how many hydrogen fuel pumps did you drive past on your way to work this morning? As great as these zero-emission fuels are, if there is no infrastructure it becomes a moot point. Only by fostering cooperation between our industry, government and the general public can we address these practical concerns. Our membership with the CaFCP is about a healthy step in that direction.