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Fueling the future: Chula Vista is one of the few cities in the nation to add a hydrogen fuel-cell car to its fleet of vehicles.

Article Excerpt
Meltdowns by motorists at San Diego's gas pumps may never be totally eliminated, but alternative fuels may ease the gas pains one day, and hydrogen fuel could be among the pain relievers.

That's the hope of those on the forefront of developing this renewable source of energy. But, for now, it's all about research, development and testing.

On Nov. 10, Chula Vista became the first city in San Diego County--and one of the few cities in the nation--to add a hydrogen fuel-cell car to its fleet of vehicles. The prototype Honda FCX is billed as the world's first fuel-cell car certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and CaliforniaAir Resources Board for regular commercial use.

The car--leased by the city for two years at $500 a month, insurance and maintenance included--travels at a top speed of 90 mph and has a range of up to 160 miles before refueling. The car uses hydrogen instead of gasoline and produces only pure steam at the tailpipe.

However, Michael Meacham, director of conservation and environmental services for the city of Chula Vista, wants to remind eager motorists that this is only a pilot project.

"It's important for people to know that these cars are not likely to be on the market in the near future," he said. "This is a research and development project."

Gunnar Lindstrom, manager for alternative fuels at American Honda in Torrance, agreed.

"It will take a long time for fuel-cell cars to be sold over the counter in meaningful numbers," he said, "maybe 15 or 20 years."

He gave three reasons why.

"The durability of the car is not what it needs to be," said Lindstrom. But, he added, he is confident that it will last for the term of Chula Vista's lease agreement.

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