Automotive giants General Motors (GM) and Honda have commenced mass production of hydrogen fuel cell systems at their collaborative facility in Michigan. This significant development marks the realisation of a decade-long effort by the two companies to advance hydrogen technology. The joint venture, known as Fuel Cell System Manufacturing (FCSM), established in 2017, is responsible for the production of hydrogen fuel cells intended for diverse applications.
The hydrogen fuel cells utilise compressed hydrogen as fuel, emitting only water vapour as the sole byproduct. Several automakers are increasingly adopting this technology due to its benefits in developing heavy-duty vehicles and mobile power generators, aligning with the broader transition away from traditional gas-powered vehicles.
The $85 million FCSM factory in Brownstown, Michigan, represents a collaborative investment by GM and Honda. This facility, unique as the first large-scale manufacturing joint venture dedicated to fuel cell production, will produce fuel cells for various products and business ventures.
GM and Honda, united in their vision for hydrogen and fuel cell technology, believe these advancements will play a crucial role in addressing zero-emissions energy and mobility needs. The joint venture’s engineers initiated collaborative efforts in 2013 to co-develop the next-generation fuel cell system, focusing on enhancing performance and durability. Their collaboration resulted in a significant cost reduction, making the new fuel cell systems one-third less expensive to produce than those in the 2019 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell.
Despite challenges in the passenger car market, with limited success and infrastructure concerns, automakers like Honda and GM are pivoting towards work trucks and construction equipment. This strategic shift anticipates a more feasible implementation of hydrogen fueling stations for vehicles operating in confined areas.
The Biden administration’s recent proposal of new tax guidelines aims to promote hydrogen production as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. However, the prevalent method of hydrogen production involves fossil fuels, raising concerns about carbon dioxide emissions.
As the automotive industry continues to explore sustainable alternatives, the collaboration between GM and Honda stands as a pioneering effort towards the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cell technology.
