In parallel with GM, which is focused on producing vehicles like the Chevy Volt that use a combination of gasoline and electric energy sources (though it may also end up accepting other energy sources), Toyota is making advancements in fuel cell technology. The joy with fuel cells is the waste — it’s water. Drink up!

Toyota just announced that its FCHV-adv model just achieved a new cruising range of 516 miles, according to the Associated Press. The previous model was limited to 205 miles, so it’s quite a leap forward.

Vehicles that run on fuel cells gain power from fusing hydrogen and oxygen into water. The only uncomfortable aspect of the whole idea is hydrogen’s innate ability to create violent explosions.

As gas prices continue to climb, consumers are gaining more interest in alternative fuels and it’s initiating a war for green energy. The cheapest, most reliable vehicle will certainly gain a foothold, though marketing and buzz will certainly play a role too.

Fuel cells also have historically been challenged by cold weather:

Fuel efficiency in the FCHV-adv was improved 25 percent with better braking and other changes, Toyota said. The new fuel cell vehicle can also start and run in temperatures as low as minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 30 Celsius), it said. Getting a fuel cell to work well in cold weather is a technological challenge.

Obligatory notice: BLORGE in no way recommends that you run to the nearest fuel cell vehicle for your next refreshing glass of water. For the most satisfying experience, instead, safely walk toward the nearest faucet.

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Entry was posted on Friday, June 6th, 2008 at 8:15 pm under Auto, Green Technology.

Read more entries by Matt Jansen.
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