Originally published February 9 2005
Hydrogenics Corp. and General Motors Canada unveil a new, fuel cell-powered forklift
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Fuel cell-powered vehicles are becoming a reality and a new forklift to be used in Canada is proof. These new, no-emission, easily refueled forklifts are an ideal test case for fuel cell technology, thanks to the fact that they will be in constant use while they stay in a climate-controlled environment. These forklifts were developed by Hydrogenic Corporation in association with General Motors of Canada.
General Motors of Canada Limited and Hydrogenics Corporation today demonstrated that commercially viable hydrogen-powered industrial vehicles are closer to the market than many people think.
Hydrogenics is leading a consortium of partners to develop, demonstrate and move fuel cell-powered forklifts toward commercialization.
This is the first time a fuel cell vehicle supported by an onsite hydrogen fuelling station has been demonstrated at a GM facility.
This project is being partially funded with a $1.45 million contribution from Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC).
SDTC is a foundation created by the Government of Canada that operates a $550 million fund to support the development and demonstration of clean technologies that address issues of climate change, clean air, water and soil quality.
"This trial of hydrogen-powered forklift trucks at GM's car plant in Oshawa is just one example of the steps GM and its partners are taking as we head down the road to the hydrogen economy," said David Paterson, vice- president, corporate and environmental affairs, GM Canada.
"Using this hydrogen fuel-cell technology for industrial vehicles has the potential to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions -- a major contributor to climate change -- and enhance Canadians' quality of life."
"The development of new technologies for environmental and economic sustainability is key to the Government of Canada's mandate," said the Honourable Stephane Dion, Minister of the Environment.
"We believe that one of the first commercial uses for hydrogen powered-vehicles will be in industrial vehicle fleets, such as forklifts, where dedicated on-site refuelling stations can meet immediate refuelling needs.
"SDTC supports the development and demonstration of clean technology applications such as fuel cell-powered forklifts, to bring environmental and economic benefits to all Canadians," said Vicky J. Sharpe, president and CEO of Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC).
All content posted on this site is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. Truth Publishing LLC takes sole responsibility for all content. Truth Publishing sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. NaturalNews.com is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. Truth Publishing assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. For the full terms of usage of this material, visit www.NaturalNews.com/terms.shtml