Fuel cells in California on their way

Despite strong support from Gov. Arnold Schwartzenegger, zero-emissions vehicles in California are a long ways off — but automakers are working on it. GM, BMW and Honda are working towards fuel-cell vehicles for the state.

BMW reported that it expects to have 7-series vehicles "in the hundreds" by 2010 that are combination gasoline engine and fuel cell-powered vehicles. GM, working on revamping the GMC Sequel demonstration vehicle, said it would complete its feasability study by 2010 but could not comment on a production or marketing timetable. Honda, which has lent its fuel cell vehicle to a California family for testing, says that its priorities have shifted from high-mileage gasoline engine vehicles to gasoline-electric hybrids to fuel cells.