The American Public Transportation Association's (APTA) annual conference saw the next generation of zero-emission buses announced. The vehicles, which contain fuel cells, were purchased by AC Transit and the firm could purchase 13 more to add to the 120 that has been originally agreed. The buses could be delivered in 2009 and can last for up to 10,000 hours of operation based on defined performance.

At the beginning of the month, Governments from across the European Union agreed to spend $731 million to develop fuel cells and hydrogen technology. The innovative technologies could be used in cars and could slash oil consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Funding could be matched by automobile companies and the lower emissions vehicles could become a reality between 2010 and 2020.

A carbon-free minibus powered with three green technologies was unveiled this month. With a range of about 150 miles, the bus will be used by students at the University of Glamorgan. It is powered by hydrogen fuel cells, batteries and ultra-capacitors. The minibus automatically uses the most appropriate form of power.

MTI Micro Fuel Cells announced the expansion of its operations in China after it opened a new office in Shanghai. The office develop relationships between manufacturers and low-cost component suppliers in China and according to Peng Lim, chairman of the firm, it represents a big step in reaching "manufacturing readiness".

Toyota announced this month that it has developed a fuel-cell vehicle that can run for 516 miles on a single tank of hydrogen. The car is also capable of running in temperatures as low as 30 degrees Celsius. Government agencies will be leasing out the zero-emission FCHV-adv models which emit only water. A slightly bigger fuel tank and a doubling of the maximum storage pressure have been able to extend the range of previous models.

Honda announced this month that it had begun production of the FCX Clarity. Running on hydrogen fuel cells that only emit water vapour, the new car is three times more fuel efficient than traditional petrol powered models.

In addition, Honda is set to bring its new fuel cell vehicle to the Hokkaido Toyako Summit in July. The event will see the FCX Clarity and the Civic Hybrid, as well as other technologies, make an appearance. The participation will show the Japanese government's support for advanced environmental technologies.

General Motors announced this month that it was taking up a partnership with Clean Energy Fuels to construct a new hydrogen refuelling station in Los Angeles. The station will serve cars running on hydrogen fuel cells that only emit water, rather than CO2. The station could be the first of many and it will be located near to Los Angeles International Airport. A network of stations could be created and General Motors has already stated its intention to have 1,000 fuel cell vehicles in California between 2012 and 2014.

Genepax Co explained the technology behind its new fuel-cell system. By supplying water and air to electrodes the technology produces power. The system is similar to that of a normal fuel cell (which uses hydrogen as a fuel) but Genepax say its main feature is the membrane electrode assembly. This technology contains a material capable of breaking down water into hydrogen and oxygen through a chemical reaction.

The Japanese government has officially certified the Suzuki SX4-FCV, according to the car's manufacturers. Suzuki revealed that it developed the vehicle after it was certified by the Japanese Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Development of the vehicle will move towards a commercial application through the conducting of public road tests.

Meanwhile, DuPont and SFC Smart Fuel Cell AG announced that the M-25 portable fuel cell had been deployed for its first limited use in the field with the US army. Cindy Green, Vice President of DuPont Fluoroproducts said the firm was pleased to make a breakthrough that will help soldiers. The technology can power digital communication and navigation equipment as well as providing continuous and quiet power.

Ballard Power Systems announced a partnership with Dantherm Power A/S to provide BC Hydro with a 100kw supplemental power product. It will be used in the Bella Coola community in British Colombia. Ballard Power Systems indicated that it was pleased to continue the development of exciting fuel cell products.

Finally, Shell announced this month that it will open California's first hydrogen refuelling station. Located on Santa Monica Boulevard, the station will provide consumers with a place to fill hydrogen fuel cell powered vehicles.