Fuel-Cells: ¿The next automotive revolution?

Toyota has developed a new long-range electric vehicle powered entirely by a cutting-edge fuel cell. The japanese giant has announced that it will be available for purchase starting in 2015. This makes Toyota’s project both revolutionary and sobering because it marks a turn away from the purely battery-driven electric car, which is being developed by almost every other automaker in the world. Company officials note that about 500 Toyota engineers are working on fuel-cell technology, which, even for a major corporation, is a considerable number. This suggests the fuel-cell technology is Toyota’s top R&D priority.

No one can predict whether the fuel cell car will ultimately be the key to our automotive future, but the competition is certainly impressed by Toyota’s dedication: Daimler has entered into an R&D alliance with Ford and Nissan, envisioning a market introduction of new cars powered by fuel-cells in 2017. Also in the running are getting ready two main manufacturers’ alliances: General Motors + Honda+ Hyundai, and another alliance between Volkswagen and the Canadian fuel cell producer Ballard this year, so as not to be caught unawares in case the technology takes off.

Nissan NV200T

It is now done, the Nissan NV200T taxicab is now in service on the streets of New York City.

The meter on the first NV200T fare officially kicked-off at JFK International Airport on October 23, dropping its inaugural passenger near 13^th Street and 6^th Avenue in Manhattan.

Mr. Ranjit Singh, an owner/operator of Medallion No. 7F20, took delivery of his NV200T from Koeppel Nissan in Queens on October 18. Eight Nissan dealerships in the New York City region now have the NV200T available for purchase by New York City medallion owners.

“The Nissan NV200T demonstrates the company’s leadership in advancing global mobility through modern vehicle design and technology,” said Andy Palmer, executive vice president for Nissan Motor Company. “From its fuel-efficient powertrain, to its space-saving design and passenger-centric interior, the Nissan taxi is a prime example of innovative spirit that goes into all Nissan vehicles. We are excited to see the NV200T now carrying passengers around Manhattan, and look forward to bringing the same NV200T experience to drivers and passengers in new markets outside New York.”

The NV200T is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, made, per Nissan, to enhance the emission performance and fuel efficiency of the taxi fleet.