UTC Power's latest generation PureMotion System Model 120 fuel cell has achieved 10,000 operating hours under real-world conditions without any cell replacements.

The fuel cell, used to power hybrid-electric transit buses, was introduced into service in 2005 and was the product of nine years of research and development.

A total of 18 transit buses are now powered by the PureMotion fuel cell, across California with AC Transit and SunLine and in Connecticut with CTTransit.

AC Transit's director of alternative fuels policy and hydrogen fuel cell programme manager, Jaimie Levin, explained: "Our passengers love these buses, as well as our mechanics and drivers.

"We are extremely pleased and impressed with the performance of the UTC Power near-ambient pressure fuel cell system."

PureMotion also one praise from CTTransit, which notes that its buses have seen "remarkable progress" in terms of powerplant durability.

UTC Power transport business manager Dana Kaplinski takes these endorsements and the demonstrable success of the fuel cell system as testament of the technology's "exceptional performance".

"The new technology we introduced in 2007 has surpassed our customers' expectations," he added. "Buses equipped with the Model 120 fuel cell system have traveled more than 630,000 miles, a significant accomplishment."

Source:

Cell System Sets World Record - Achieving 10,000-Hour Durability in Transit Service (11/08/11)
 

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