GM, Honda to collaborate on next-generation fuel cell systems

General Motors and Honda have announced that they will work together in developing next-generation fuel cell systems and hydrogen storage technologies, with both carmakers sharing their expertise, economies of scale, and common sourcing strategies.

\"This collaboration builds upon Honda and GM\'s strengths as leaders in hydrogen fuel cell technology,\" said GM chairman and CEO Dan Akerson. \"We are convinced this is the best way to develop this important technology, which has the potential to help reduce the dependence on petroleum and establish sustainable mobility.\"

According to the Clean Energy Patent Growth Index, GM and Honda are the acknowledged leaders in fuel cell technology, ranking at numbers one and two, respectively, with more than 1,200 fuel cell patents filed between the two companies from 2002 to 2012.

\"Among all zero carbon-dioxide emission technologies, fuel cell electric vehicles have a definitive advantage with range and refueling time that is as good as conventional cars,\" added Honda Motor president and CEO Takanobu Ito. \"Honda and GM are eager to accelerate the market penetration of this ultimate clean mobility technology, and I\'m excited to form this collaboration to fuse our leading fuel cell technologies and create an advanced system that will be both more capable and more affordable.\"

GM and Honda hope to roll out the first system from this partnership by 2020.