Fuel cell technology has taken a major step forward today with the news that the first fuel cell passenger cars to hit Berlin have been received by German customers, together with the full operation of Europe's first fuel cell service station.

A clutch of A-Class 'F-Cell' vehicles have been received by business partners Deutsche Telekom and BEWAG/Vattenfall Europe, the cars being delivered to the Mercedes-Benz Salzufer outlet.

The vehicles have been primarily developed by DaimlerChrysler, which presented the world's very first fuel cell powered vehicle ten years ago.

Dr Thomas Weber, a member of DaimlerChrysler board, commented: "With the delivery of these vehicles, which will drive in regular operation, we are making a statement in Germany: The technology has now outgrown the research stage once and for all."

"We are introducing fuel cell vehicles on public roads, thus paving the way for a broad basis of experience. We are very happy to have found two highly committed partners, Deutsche Telekom and Bewag/Vattenfall Europe, for this important phase."

These vehicles are powered by Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells, which feature platinum electrodes.