Ballard Power Systems Inc. (Vancouver, BC, Canada) is reportedly seeking investment from China as it tries to break into the world's third-largest vehicle market, according to the company's Chief Executive Dennis Campbell. Ballard, partially owned by DaimlerChrysler AG and Ford Motor Co. hosted Chinese President Hu Jintao on September 17, 2005, who toured the company's research and manufacturing operations. Ballard and China have discussed hydrogen fuel cell technology for more than a year, according to Campbell.
DaimlerChrysler spokesman Han Tjan declined to comment on Ballard's discussions with Chinese officials. Ford spokesman Nick Twork also had no comment. "China is seeking ways to limit automotive exhaust pollution. China's market is the most compelling case for fuel cells. No one needs it more than China. Its auto industry is growing at a very hot pace. We are looking at a variety of forms in which investment could take place," Campbell stated. "There are no specific items that I'm in a position to discuss."
Ballard has supplied fuel cells for three DaimlerChrysler buses to be used in a pilot project in Beijing. Before developing fuel cells for cars, the company must lower costs estimated at more than $1 million per vehicle, and address a lack of cheap hydrogen and fueling stations. Most fuel cell use is limited to vehicles owned by universities and public agencies. The Chinese government will test its first fuel-cell-powered bus in Beijing and plans to expand the test to Shanghai. China is the third-largest market for cars and trucks and is the fastest-growing. Chinese auto sales grew 15 percent last year, after surging 76 percent in 2003 and 50 percent in 2002.
