Soaring fuel costs increase importance of fuel cell technology

The rising cost of fuel is putting vehicle manufacturers under pressure to deliver cost-saving solutions, it has been revealed.

Nissan Motor Company has announced it is to unveil the diesel-powered version of its X-Trail sports utility vehicle in Japan two-and-a-half years ahead of schedule in a bid to cater to the market for fuel saving cars.

This decision is surprising given that traditionally, demand for diesel-powered cars in the country is low - just 0.1 per cent of passenger cars sold in Japan run on diesel.

However, such is the clamour for fuel-saving alternatives that attitudes are changing, according to Yo Usuba, a senior vice president overseeing Nissan's powertrain operations.

"To be honest, we don't know how far diesel will be accepted in Japan," he said.

"But given the recent high fuel costs...calls for diesel are growing."

As a long-term solution to the problem, Nissan has been focussing on fuel cell technology.

The company recently unveiled plans to develop a new fuel cell vehicle, as well as an electric vehicle.


© Adfero Ltd

Source: Adfero