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General Motors Intros Hy-Wire FCV to China

November 23, 2003 by Jeff Shepard

General Motors Corp. (GM, Detroit, MI) introduced its fuel cell technology to China, hoping to sound out the government on a multi-billion dollar commitment to set up infrastructure for the fledgling technology. GM rolled out prototypes of its fuel cell technology and wheel-hub electric motors for journalists and China's planning czar, Vice Premier Zeng Peiyan.

"Petroleum dependency is growing in China. China is on the verge of becoming the world's second largest petroleum importer," stated Phil Murtaugh, chairman of GM China Group. "As China is expected to import up to 50% of its petroleum needs by 2010, there really is no place in which this technology is more relevant or the opportunities greater than China. The fact that Zeng Peiyan is going to come to take a look at these vehicles is a sign that China is very interested in this and very supportive of the work that General Motors is doing."

By seeking alternative energy vehicles, China could reduce its dependency on foreign oil and reduce greenhouse gases and air pollution. Besides the car itself, China would need to produce hydrogen (the fuel for the car) as well as set up a distribution infrastructure for selling the fuel.