At this weekend's Woodward Dream Cruise, the world's largest exposition of classic cars, automotive giants DaimlerChrysler and Ford plan to give motorists a glimpse of their green ambitions.

Both carmakers will be showcasing the latest hydrogen fuel cell technology, billed as the solution to our dependence on harmful fossil fuels. Fuel cell engines, which turn hydrogen and oxygen into energy using a platinum catalyst, produce zero emissions.

The only bi-product of the reaction is water.

In order to expose the public to the reality of this technology, which is not yet commercially viable for mass production, the Chrysler Group will demonstrate its small hydrogen-powered vehicle, based on the Mercedes A-Class.

Ford in turn will reveal its fuel cell car, which resembles a Focus.

"We're looking forward to getting them out there and showing people that hydrogen vehicles are here today," commented Greg Frenette, chief fuel cell programme engineer at Ford.

"Using a venue that's one million people just interested in cars is a great place to expose this technology," added director of hydrogen fuel cell projects at the Chrysler Group, Steve Zimmer.

Both firms currently lease out a handful of hydrogen vehicles to government agencies, businesses and engineers, though analysts predict that the technology will not appear on the forecourts until at least 2020.


Ÿ Adfero Ltd