Commercially viable fuel cell stack technology will be ready within five years, according to a leading fuel cell developer.

Ballard has released a technology 'road map' planning its development of the technology for hydrogen-powered vehicles with a completion target of 2010.

"With today's release of our technology road map, we're making a public commitment that Ballard will demonstrate the commercial viability of automotive fuel cell stack technology by 2010," said Dennis Campbell, president and chief executive of Ballard.

The map comprises four technology trendlines and targets for fuel cell stack durability, cost, freeze start and volumetric power density, issues which must be resolved in order to make commercial fuel cells a reality.

The targets, described as "aggressive but achievable", include fuel cells with 5,000 hours of lifetime, freeze start capability to minus 30 degrees C and a cost of $30/kW at a volume of 500,000 units.

Ballard has already demonstrated significant progress in key areas of fuel cell development, including improvements in freeze starts, durability and cost announced in 2004.

The company is recognised as the world leader in developing, manufacturing and marketing zero-emission proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Its stated mission is to develop fuel cell power as a practical alternative to internal combustion engines.