Ford extends fuel cell Focus demo programme

After three years of successful service, thirty Ford Focus Fuel Cell prototypes have been given a new lease on life.

In partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, Ford's extended the test program until 2010, giving the hand-built prototypes another two years on the road. 

Ford claims the Focii, all first-generation examples of Ford's fuel cell research, have lasted "three times longer" than originally expected.  The success was apparently enough to warrant an extension of the program.

The extra time allows Ford to collect more real-world testing data, which it then plans to incorporate into a next-generation fuel cell vehicle currently under development.

The Focus FCV prototypes, presently running across the U.S. and in Europe, were hand-built in 2005.  All use a fuel cell stack supplied by Ballard, a tank capable of storing four kilograms of hydrogen, and an 87 hp electric motor. 

According to Ford, the cars have garnered positive reviews from users, and we can see why.  By ditching the standard 2.0-liter I-4, the Focus FCV loses all the noise and vibration most expect from an older Focus.  Instead, the car proved to be remarkably refined and whisper-quiet in most driving situations.

A common complaint among users lies with the car's limited range.  At best, a Focus FCV filled with hydrogen can run up to 225 miles before refueling.  Ford's trying to rectify that problem by doubling the amount of hydrogen stored on-board.

http://blogs.automobilemag.com/6271273/green/ford-extends-focus-fuel-cell-program/index.html

Source: Automobille mag