G.M.'s Fuel Cell Car:Closer Than You Think.

'Fuel cell momentum is now so great that its emergence as a predominant technology appears just short of inevitable,' says GM CEO Rick Wagoner.

GM has launched a test fleet of hydrogen powered fuel cell Equinox SUV's, in New York City, Washington,DC., and Southern California. Called 'Project Driveway' it is the first large scale test of fuel cell electric vehicles. GM differs from other auto developers as it has developed its fuel cell technology in house.

The Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell electric vehicle is a zero emission vehicle. But you don't have to sacrifice too much to do your share to save the environment. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in 12 seconds and achieves a top speed of 100 mph. It has room for four passengers and 32 cubic feet of luggage space. It has a range of 150 miles on a full charge. What's more it meets all applicable 2007 Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. It has standard front and side impact airbags, anti lock braking system and StabiliTrak stability enhancement technology, to name a few.

The Equinox Fuel Cell looks and drives like any other Equinox crossover. The fuel cell fits into the regular engine compartment, and the battery pack sits under the floor in the middle of the vehicle, while the hydrogen tanks are at the rear. The interior is plush but there is one important difference. Instead of a regular tachometer there is a power indicator to show the amount of power being delivered to the system.

The advantages of electric cars do not stop at zero emission. With fewer moving parts they will be more durable and eventually also cost less than present day cars. GM also hopes that one day each car will produce more energy than it consumes, with the surplus being stored and used at home.