With the advent of a new model year upon us, our vision is necessarily focused on the future. Well, some journalists are looking even further into the future, and they're seeing Hydrogen Fuel Cells.

According to the Monday, September 18, 2006 issue of the Los Angeles Times and Bloomberg News, General Motors will put 100 hydrogen-powered vehicles on the road in 2007, on the way toward having 1,000 hydrogen vehicles working by 2010. The first 100 vehicles will be part of a GM program dubbed "Project Driveway." Hydrogen fuel cell-powered Chevrolet Equinox crossover SUVs will be placed on lease with drivers in California, the New York metropolitan area and Washington, DC.

Larry Burns, General Motors' Vice President for Research & Development and Planning, previewed some of the planning on GM's blog, FastLane, on May 15, 2006:

At General Motors, we are committed to reinventing the automobile, for today and for the future; to minimize its impact on the environment; to promote energy independence; and to create a better, safer, more responsive driving experience for consumers around the world.

To make this vision a reality, we are executing a multifaceted advanced technology strategy that includes advanced engines, hybrids and alternative fuels, like ethanol, today and hydrogen-powered fuel-cell vehicles in the long term.

GM has placed a very high priority on fuel cells and hydrogen as the best long-term option for automotive propulsion.

Is the petroleum-free future really on the automotive horizon? Check out Eric Powers' blog -- Eric is About's Guide to Hybrid Cars -- for some info about a very provocative television special about the future of cars.

Photo © General Motors