TBO.com - Tampa Bay Online
Chevy Equinox = hydrogen power now
ADVERTISEMENT
Published: December 22, 2007
One of the most innovative and remarkable personal transportation power sources seems to be just around the corner. GM is just a few months from giving drivers an array of choices that will prove that patience is indeed a virtue and the rewards are well worth the wait.
I've driven the new Chevy Malibu/Saturn Aura hybrid sedans. Now at dealerships, the cars offer a less-complicated version of mild hybrid technology. I also recently tested the soon-to-be introduced Chevy Tahoe two-mode hybrid. We love our SUVs and this eight-seater offers gas mileage equal to a four-cylinder sedan and a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. Finally, a better use of hybrid technology; look for my full review in coming weeks.
The most remarkable vehicle and power source I have driven is a fuel cell-powered Chevrolet Equinox. The cell converts hydrogen into electrical power stored in nickel hybrid batteries that powers an electric motor to move the vehicle. It emits nothing more harmful than clear water from the exhaust.
In a first test, I told you how much I enjoyed the Equinox powered by a traditional gasoline engine. It is comfortable, accommodating and handles rather well for this classification of vehicle. The exterior design is contemporary and attractive while allowing buyers to have the flexibility and functionality of a minivan.
With a few minor modifications, the Equinox becomes the super vehicle of alternative vehicles. The Equinox offers a satisfying performance without the environmental tradeoffs along with economy unheard of in the auto industry.
We've seen and I have driven a number of prototypes that promise hydrogen technology. GM's Driveway program will put fuel cell-powered Equinox vehicles in the hands of hundreds of drivers for up to three months at a time for real world evaluations.
The main drawback with hydrogen is the lack of infrastructure for refueling. While slowly changing, this limited availability is the reason that selection of volunteers for the Driveway program is concentrated in areas where hydrogen refueling stations are. You can be assured as more and more hydrogen becomes available, programs such as these as well as hydrogen vehicles will be on the road.
The differences between the gasoline-powered Equinox and the hydrogen-fueled car are minor on the outside, yet major underneath. A slight but noticeable bump in the rear-storage compartment makes room for the three special hydrogen storage tanks under the floor. A couple of gauges on the instrument panel give information about the fuel-cell system.
The most surprising factor I found while driving the vehicle was how unnoticeably different the performance was compared with a conventional petrol-fueled vehicle. However, it is exceedingly quiet except for a slight ticking and hum from the module.
On the highway, the fuel cell-powered Equinox performed like any other vehicle I have driven lately. Response from the accelerator was immediate and linear.
Many people are concerned about the safety of hydrogen and most relate the tragedy of the Hindenburg in 1937. This is mainly because of a misconception that hydrogen was the cause of the fire and crash. Nothing could be further from the truth. Looking back on the investigation into the accident, it was determined that the fire came from the materials used to construct the air ship and only after the flames became intense did the hydrogen become a factor in the crash. Bottom line, hydrogen, in many ways, is safer than gasoline.
As I walked away from my experience with this road-ready and capable vehicle, I mourned the passing inevitable of the internal combustion engine. It may be awhile, but I am sure gasoline-powered vehicles will become less prevalent in coming years.
Ron Moorhead, a nationally syndicated automotive columnist, can be reached at ronmoorhead@hotmail.com.
