Welcome to the first Fuel Cell Today newsletter of 2004. We continue to send this out to keep you informed about what is going on around the fuel cell world.

North America has dominated the news over the last few weeks with a range of stories addressing fuel cells. Amongst the most interesting to me is the opportunity to read the US presidential candidates' views on fuel
economy and issues such as hydrogen and fuel cell implementation. Also, Ford's expectations that its new hybrid Escape sports utility vehicle will make a profit could bode well for fuel cell vehicles in the longer term.

Then, on an international level, the USA is looking to work with Japan on developing standards for fuel cells, a key step in moving to consumer products. The US Department of Energy is also involved in a programme
looking at the practicality of using hydrogen in three-wheeled vehicles in
India, with the aim of learning lessons for the eventual introduction of FCVs to its own roads.

The Christmas and New Year period are, though, typically quiet for news
and also allowed us to assess what progress fuel cells have made. Three articles in our reviews and reports section do just that and address different facets of the fuel cell industry, from developments throughout 2003, to the role of regulators in commercialising fuel cells and the status of solid oxide technology. Have a look to see what we think.

David Jollie,
Editor,
Fuel Cell Today

News

U.S. Presidential candidates on fuel efficiency

Japan and U.S. eyeing common fuel cell safety standards

Ford's hybrid escape may show a profit

Japanese sewerage facilities may serve fuel cell cars

Our fuel cell future

Hydrogen fueled three-wheelers could make impact on developing nations

Articles

Solid oxide fuel cells - ready to market?

Government, the regulators and fuel cell commercialisation

Fuel cells: A perspective on 2003