Major automotive manufacturers around the world are embarked on a mission to introduce all-electric automobiles powered by Fuel Cells. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has directed Georgetown University (GU) to ensure that a heavy-duty Fuel Cell for transit applications is available in the time frame that automotive power plants are introduced to the marketplace. GU has developed, operated and tested the only liquid-fueled, Fuel Cell powered transit buses in the world. Three 30-foot, and two 40-foot buses have been developed to date. All have been in a series-hybrid configuration using traction batteries for energy storage and operate on methanol fuel. This is the only known program in the world that is addressing liquid-fueled, Fuel Cell transit buses. Liquid fuel can meet vehicle range requirements and provide a practical refueling structure.
This presentation presents a description of the GU Fuel Cell Bus Program and provides a summary description of the status of automotive Fuel Cell technology and the opportunities and challenges of successful commercial introduction of Fuel Cell automobiles.