World's First Zero-Emissions Hummer Debuts in California

On the other hand, despite the H2H's tactful, environmentally-friendly approach to using an internal combustion engine, it

The clean Hummer is equipped with three carbon-fiber hydrogen fuel tanks allowing for 12.1 pounds of hydrogen, or about 50 to 60 miles in range. (Photo: General Motors)

incorporates its fair share of problems from a design standpoint. The clean Hummer is equipped with three carbon-fiber hydrogen fuel tanks allowing for 12.1 pounds of hydrogen to be stored on board. Given the Hummer's M1A1 Abrams battle tank-like curb weight, high rolling resistance, brick-like aerodynamics and a six-liter motor, it's no surprise then that the fuel tanks can be drained in as little as 50 to 60 miles of driving. Seeing as there are about a dozen hydrogen refueling stations in California, running out of fuel could prove problematic.

Although the H2H shows a definite advancement in General Motors' hydrogen-powered drivetrain systems, the idea of a zero-emissions Hummer has been grounded, at least for the time being. While GM will continue to pursue and develop new technologies, the company believes that the future of hydrogen vehicles lies in the hands of more efficient fuel cell

General Motors has a unique emissions-cutting program which is expected to help improve the Hummer's gas-guzzling image. (Photo: General Motors)

technology. As with electric cars of the late '80s and '90s, GM's Impact being one of the most well received, range is the crippling factor.

While the concept is intriguing it may be some time before any ZEV Hummers will be seen on the street, but General Motors has a unique emissions-cutting program which is expected to help improve the marque's tarnished image. Come spring of 2005, Hummer plans to introduce the smaller H3, a vehicle based off GM's compact pickup truck chassis (Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon). It will carry the Hummer brand's trademark styling cues without the excess weight and resultant consumption. Likewise, Hummer is also expected to introduce a new diesel engine for the H1 that features reduced fuel consumption and emissions release. It too is expected to arrive sometime in spring, 2005.