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GM And Honda Begin Production Of Hydrogen Fuel Cells In The U.S.

January 28, 2024 David

For centuries, the dream of unpolluted transportation has pushed innovation. Among the contenders, hydrogen fuel cells stand out, promising zero emissions and a possible revolution in how we transfer. But, their journey, from scientific curiosity to viable answer, has been lengthy and winding. The fundamental idea is easy: hydrogen and oxygen mix in a gas cell, producing electrical energy and emitting solely water vapor. This clear response provides a stark distinction to conventional engines, with their dangerous pollution and greenhouse gases.

Early sparks of this technology ignited in the 19th century, however sensible functions remained elusive for many years as a consequence of limitations in supplies, effectivity, and infrastructure. The late twentieth century noticed renewed curiosity, fueled by environmental issues and power safety wants. Advancements in supplies science and engineering paved the way in which for extra environment friendly, compact gas cells. However, challenges endured. The lack of a strong hydrogen infrastructure and excessive prices hampered widespread adoption.

But the tide is popping. Technological breakthroughs are reducing prices and bettering efficiency. Governments and corporations are investing in hydrogen infrastructure, and the urgency of local weather motion provides momentum. The recent partnership between General Motors and Honda, aiming to supply hydrogen gas cells within the United States is a big step ahead and could possibly be a turning level in commercializing this promising know-how.

In order to provide the latest and correct data potential, the info used to compile this text was sourced from GM and Honda, and different authoritative sources, together with Fuel Cell System Manufacturing LLC, Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Hydrogen Insight, and Automotive News.

Toyota’s Water-Cooled Hydrogen Combustion Engine Is Proof Of Its Commitment To A Hydrogen-powered Future

Toyota’s patent-pending water-cooled hydrogen combustion engine paves the way in which for high-performance alternate options to electrical automobiles.

Fuel Cell Manufacturing Advancements Take Center Stage In The Collaboration

GM-Honda Hydrogen Fuel Cell manufacturing unit — Honda

The coronary heart of the GM-Honda partnership lies in the intricate technology housed inside their Brownstown, Michigan facility. Fuel Cell System Manufacturing LLC, a 50/50 joint venture established in 2017, has formally commenced manufacturing of next-generation hydrogen gas cells. These cells mark a big leap ahead, boasting not solely enhanced efficiency and prolonged sturdiness (twice that of earlier fashions), but additionally decreased manufacturing prices.

This newest improvement builds upon a decade-long collaboration between the 2 auto giants. Their dedication to gas cell know-how is obvious within the steady refinements made all through the years. Previous iterations have integrated corrosion-resistant supplies, making certain longevity and reliability. Additionally, developments in low-temperature operation have expanded the potential functions of this clear power know-how.

GM And Honda Advancements Make Hydrogen Fuel Cells More Viable Than Ever

The new gas cells signify a vital step towards business viability. Lower manufacturing prices make them extra accessible for widespread adoption, doubtlessly paving the way in which for broader integration into the transportation sector and past. While the complete impression of those developments stays to be seen, the dedication and progress demonstrated by GM and Honda provide promising prospects for the way forward for hydrogen gas cell know-how.

Streamlining Production And Driving Down Costs

The Michigan facility established by General Motors and Honda is not nearly churning out hydrogen gas cells; it is about revolutionizing their manufacturing and affordability. At the guts of the operation lies a relentless concentrate on price discount, achieved by a multi-pronged strategy that leverages economies of scale, progressive automation, and strategic materials selections.

Scaling Up For Efficiency: The three way partnership capitalizes on the ability of collaboration. By pooling assets and experience, GM and Honda have created a manufacturing facility able to churning out gas cells at a considerably increased quantity than particular person efforts may handle. This bigger scale interprets to decreased per-unit prices, paving the way in which for extra accessible hydrogen gas cell know-how.

Automating The Intricacies: Repetitive and exact duties are prime candidates for automation, and the Michigan facility embraces this idea wholeheartedly. Industry-first methods automate the manufacturing of key elements like membrane-electrode assemblies and gas cell stacks. This not solely boosts effectivity and consistency but additionally minimizes human error, additional contributing to price discount and high quality management.

Material Matters: Every part counts with regards to price. The three way partnership analyzes every component of the gas cell system, in search of alternatives for optimization. This contains advancing cell design to maximise effectivity whereas minimizing materials utilization, notably specializing in decreasing reliance on costly valuable metals. Additionally, the ability leverages frequent sourcing practices for available supplies, additional driving down procurement prices.

Toyota’s “Hydrogen Sharing Network” Could Make Refuelling Your Hydrogen-powered Car A Whole Lot Easier

Thanks to current patent filings, we have realized what Toyota has in retailer with its “Hydrogen Sharing Network”, and it could possibly be an amazing transfer.

The Overall Impact On Affordability

The mixed impact of those cost-reduction methods is important. The new fuel cell systems produced at the Michigan facility are anticipated to be a 3rd cheaper than these utilized in earlier fashions just like the Honda Clarity. This dramatic worth drop represents a serious leap in the direction of making hydrogen gas cell know-how a commercially viable possibility for a wider vary of customers and functions.

Beyond the numbers, whereas price discount is undoubtedly a vital issue, it is necessary to acknowledge that the Michigan facility represents greater than only a bean-counting train. The concentrate on affordability is finally pushed by a shared imaginative and prescient of a cleaner future. By making hydrogen gas cell know-how extra accessible, GM and Honda goal to speed up the transition in the direction of zero-emission transportation and contribute to a big discount in greenhouse fuel emissions.

Initial Production Plans And Target Applications

The preliminary manufacturing quantity of the three way partnership’s gas cell energy models will probably be modest, with a target of 2,000 units annually by the mid-2020s, in response to Honda. This measured strategy displays the present stage of hydrogen gas cell know-how, with a concentrate on preliminary market penetration and infrastructure improvement.

The gas cells produced on the Michigan plant will probably be destined for varied functions. Honda’s CR-V SUV will be one of the first to receive the new technology, showcasing its potential within the passenger automotive market. Additionally, the three way partnership is exploring broader makes use of past transportation, together with stationary energy era and heavy-duty trucking. A collaboration with Isuzu on a hydrogen-powered Class 8 semi-truck demonstrates the potential for gas cells to decarbonize the business transportation sector.

Initial Production Phase To Gather Data And Refine Technology For Future Hydrogen Fuel Cell Adoption

Rear 3/4 view of a 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid (RS e:HEV) — Isaac Atienza

This preliminary section of manufacturing will present invaluable knowledge and expertise for the three way partnership, permitting for additional refinement and optimization of the know-how. As the infrastructure for hydrogen refueling expands and shopper consciousness grows, the manufacturing quantity is anticipated to scale up accordingly, paving the way in which for wider adoption of hydrogen gas cells sooner or later.

By specializing in a measured rollout and concentrating on various functions, the GM-Honda joint venture is taking a strategic strategy to advance hydrogen gas cell know-how. This preliminary section lays the groundwork for future development and paves the way in which for a cleaner transportation future.

Kenworth Toyota fuel cell electric hydrogen

Toyota’s Hydrogen Combustion Engine Has The Potential To Make EVs Obsolete

Toyota is taking a diversified strategy to realize carbon neutrality and it could possibly be a successful method for the Japanese automaker .

A Landscape Of Competition And Collaboration

Gray 2023 Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid driving — Honda

Beyond the speedy partnership, the GM-Honda enterprise operates inside a broader panorama of each competitors and collaboration within the realm of hydrogen gas cell know-how. Rival automakers like Toyota are all actively pursuing their own fuel cell development programs, recognizing the potential of this know-how as a viable various to conventional diesel engines, notably in heavy-duty transportation.

However, a number of key challenges stay for the widespread adoption of gas cell know-how. One of probably the most vital hurdles is the excessive price of manufacturing and implementation of gas cell methods in comparison with their inside combustion counterparts. Additionally, the dearth of a strong hydrogen refueling infrastructure throughout many areas presents a sensible impediment for gas cell car house owners.

GM-Honda Fuel Cell Venture Eyes Wider Hydrogen Ecosystem

The GM-Honda joint venture particularly goals to deal with these challenges head-on. By pooling assets and experience, the collaboration hopes to drive down manufacturing prices and speed up developments in gas cell know-how. Furthermore, the enterprise’s concentrate on each passenger automobiles and business functions, just like the beforehand introduced gas cell system provide to truckmakers, may contribute to the event of a extra complete hydrogen infrastructure in the long term.

In essence, the GM-Honda partnership marks a big milestone not only for the 2 firms concerned, however for the broader automotive trade’s pursuit of sustainable power options. While challenges stay, the collaboration’s concentrate on price discount, technological innovation, and diversification throughout car segments may pave the way for a future where hydrogen fuel cells play a important function in clear transportation.

News

Crowning The New King Of All Three-Row Mid-Size SUVs

August 15, 2023 David

Summary

Buying an SUV can be challenging due to the overwhelming number of choices, but there are top contenders in the mid-size segment.
The Dodge Durango, Kia Telluride, Mazda CX-9, and Toyota 4Runner are among the best mid-size SUVs available.
The upcoming Toyota Grand Highlander is expected to be the best all-around three-row mid-size SUV with its diverse engine options and premium features.

Buying an SUV these days may be one of the most challenging purchases you can make as they are the most popular vehicle type today. Because of this, just about every manufacturer makes one. They come in all shapes and sizes, and there’s an overwhelming amount of choice. Of the staggering 172 models currently on sale, about 75 can be had with three rows and can seat between six / seven passengers. From luxury SUVs to more affordable ones and everything in between, choosing one can be quite a challenge.

As you can imagine, the competition is huge, particularly in the mid-size segment. In this article, we’ll look at some of the best models in the mid-size space and why an upcoming model has the potential to take the crown for the best one out there. Now, of course, not everyone will judge an SUV on the same features, so when choosing the top dog of the segment, it is crucial to take a step back and analyze the overall qualities of the vehicle and not narrow in on the one specific thing that is important to you.

That is your job when you actually go to acquire your new ride. For now, let’s go over the top four three-row mid-size SUVs and crown the new king.

Updated on August 13, 2023: Over the decades, many mid-sized SUVs have come and gone that have gained a place in our hearts, so we have decided to refresh and update this list. That means instead of burying this one into the endless articles lost to the internet, the original four SUVs can be found below, as well as a few new ones to help expand your knowledge and broaden your mind.

2023 Dodge Durango

Starting MSRP: $40,140

You may think that the Dodge Durango would be the top choice. If it was up to some of the authors, it would be because anything with the power and performance of the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat is awesome. However, it is not a very practical family SUV, so it is lower on the list because the more docile version is listed here, but one that still has V-8 power under the hood. The one major problem that the Durango is that, like some of the others on this list, it has yet to offer a hybrid or all-electric model.

Dodge Durango Specifications

Engine (ICE)	naturally aspirated 5.7-liter Hemi eight-cylinder
Motors (electric)	none
Combined Power	360 horsepower
Combined Torque	390 pound-feet
Transmission	eight-speed automatic
Drivetrain	front engine, rear or all-wheel drive

Few SUVs can tow as competently as the Dodge Durango with the Hemi. The 5.7-liter can safely tow up to 7,200 pounds, which is more than enough to tow most basic trailers and campers. If you prefer a model with better fuel economy, you can pick a Durango with a V-6 instead of the V-8, which can still tow up to 6,200 pounds. The Durango is your go-to mid-sized SUV if you want a muscle SUV, a work SUV, or a family SUV, but be prepared to pay a little more than the rivals.

2023 Kia Telluride

Starting MSRP: $35,890

The Kia Telluride is currently one of the most popular SUVs on sale. With changes to branding and vehicles, Kia has made a huge leap both in sales and quality, and most of their vehicles are certainly recommended for purchase. The Telluride hits the SUV market with its rugged looks and great features. Underneath the hood, you get a 291 horsepower V-6 with a combined fuel economy of 23mpg. Power makes its way to the axles via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Kia Telluride Specifications

Engine (ICE)	naturally aspirated six-cylinder
Motors (electric)	none
Combined Power	291 horsepower
Combined Torque	262 pound-feet
Transmission	eight-speed automatic
Drivetrain	front engine, all-wheel drive

In case you want to use the Telluride for towing, you will have the ability to hitch up a trailer that weighs up to 5,000 pounds. Of course, a third row is available, but it can be slightly cramped for adults. Cargo space is an impressive 21 cubic feet with the third row in place and 46 cubic feet with the third row folded. The Telluride is a modern SUV that blends affordability and equipment really well. Read our in-depth review of the Kia Telluride here.

2023 Mazda CX-9

Starting MSRP: $40,125

The CX9 makes it onto this list primarily due to its sportier driving characteristics. Mazda has done a great job finding a niche for the CX-9 in the overcrowded three-row SUV market. The 2.5-liter turbo with 227 horsepower provides good acceleration, and the braking and steering systems combined with slightly stiffer suspension lead to a driving experience that is very pleasant considering the type of vehicle the CX-9 is.

Mazda CX-9 Specifications

Engine (ICE)	turbocharged four-cylinder
Motors (electric)	none
Combined Power	250 horsepower
Combined Torque	320 pound-feet
Transmission	six-speed automatic
Drivetrain	front engine, all-wheel drive

It is by no means a sports car, but it is certainly more fun to throw around corners than something like a Kia Telluride or a Toyota Highlander. Of course, the CX-9 also offers convenience and usability as, at the end of the day, its main purpose is to be an SUV. Also worth mentioning is the fact that it comes standard with all-wheel and an array of driver-assist safety features. Its only downside is a slightly more cramped cabin when compared to the rest of the competition, an issue that Mazda has addressed on the CX-9’s successor, the CX-90.

2023 Toyota 4Runner

Starting MSRP: $40,155

The 4Runner may seem like a weird suggestion for this list, but stick with us. While the Telluride offers all the conventional traits of an SUV and the CX-9 takes care of the more sporty ones, the aging 4Runner will satisfy the needs of those who seek an indestructible machine. This isn’t your conventional unibody SUV. It still sits on an old-school ladder frame chassis and a rear solid axle (this makes it extremely robust), and it uses an engine and transmission that are now pretty old.

Toyota 4Runner Specifications

Engine (ICE)	naturally aspirated 4.0-liter six-cylinder
Motors (electric)	none
Combined Power	270 horsepower
Combined Torque	278 pound-feet
Transmission	five-speed automatic
Drivetrain	front engine, rear or four-wheel drive

Inside, amenities are fewer than most vehicles priced similarly, and the interior design certainly looks dated. Remember, the 5th generation 4Runner has been on sale for 13 years now. So, why on earth would we suggest you buy one? Well, it is the most reliable and tested SUV one can purchase. If you want a vehicle to keep for the next 20 years, this is the one to get. Not to mention its incredible off-road abilities and immensely cool looks. Read our in-depth review of the Toyota 4Runner here.

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Is The Best All-Rounder

Starting MSRP: $43,070

Saving the best for last, in our opinion, the best mid-size SUV has got to be the upcoming Toyota Grand Highlander. Toyota had been trailing the competition with its regular Highlander owing to that tight third row and lack of a hybrid, but that will change soon. Slotting in between the regular Highlander and Sequoia, Toyota will offer the Grand Highlander with three engine choices that include a 2.5-liter, a 2.4-liter turbo, or a 2.4-liter turbo and hybrid max model, reserved for the top trims. Power figures are 246, 265, and 362 horsepower, respectively. These engine choices mean that the Grand Highlander can meet the needs of most buyers.

Toyota Grand Highlander Specifications

Engine (ICE)	Turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder
Motors (electric)	two electric motors
Combined Power	362 horsepower
Combined Torque	400 pound-feet
Transmission	CVT
Drivetrain	front engine, all-wheel drive

Aside from the variety of engines, the Toyota also has a feature-packed interior far more premium than the standard Highlander. As standard on the 2024 model, you get features like wireless charging, plenty of USB ports, climate controls front and rear, and heated and cooled seats. Unlike the regular Highlander, the third row on the Grand Highlander now can accommodate adults comfortably (33.5 inches of legroom, which is 6.0 inches better than a regular Highlander), which is easily its best feature.

A 12.3-inch infotainment system keeps you entertained and connected with Android Auto and Apple Car Play features. The Grand Highlander is an SUV that will keep you and your family comfortable and can tow your trailer (up to 5,000 pounds). Finally, it all comes down to your needs (this is why we included the above options), but if you want a vehicle that lends a premium feel, has reliability in its blood, is comfortable, and will hold its value, then the all-new 2024 Grand Highlander is that vehicle.

The regular Highlander was already the second-best mid-size SUV on the market, selling upwards of 200,000 vehicles in 2022. The 2024 Grand Highlander has even more features, diverse powertrain options, including a hybrid, and more space. It builds on the Highlander’s strengths big time and should be able to clinch the top spot, provided Toyota can make them fast enough.

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