by David Morgan (10 Jan 08)

As I flew into South Korea to examine Kia's fuel-cell research and development programme, I had just read a depressing account on "emission-free" power plants by a Dr Wilson Flood. Dr Flood was clearly frustrated by recent hyped claims that the "hydrogen fuel cell" car had arrived to solve the planet's pollution woes. Honda plans to market the world's first hydrogen fuel cell car - at £50,000 a throw - and begin the car's global cleanup act.

Dr Flood's not so sure - and after witnessing Kia's remarkable research, neither am I. Unlike the venerable doctor I do not think we will never overcome hydrogen fuel-cell technology problem – only that it will take a lot longer than we think.

Dr Flood says there is much standing in the way of hydrogen fuel cell success. First, hydrogen is notoriously difficult to handle and cannot be liquefied until below minus 240 degrees C. He adds that suggested "home hydrogen production plants" for domestic use should be "approached with caution" - think Hindenburg airship disaster and you'll appreciate why. Finally, hydrogen is known to explode unpredictably and cannot currently be produced economically from water by electrolysis using electricity as some technologists have claimed.

His conclusion? This "magic" fuel will always be too costly to produce, difficult to handle and make hydrogen-powered fuel-cell cars the playthings of a handful of rich enthusiasts. So why bother? Well, with all due respect to Dr Flood and the other Doubting Thomases, companies like Kia are pouring millions into research to find a way through the seemingly impenetrable jungle and develop clean energy.

I sympathise with Dr Flood, but I've seen the future and by the time I flew out of Seoul the fuel cell depression that had settled on my mind had lifted. The solution is still a long way off, but Kia's impressive research programme is trying to make myth a reality. And on the way it is only people like those at Kia with fantastic intellectual resources and great commitment that just might find the answer to keep the planet's wheels turning cleanly and sustainably.

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