October 2004

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The U.S. market for advanced technology components for next generation fuel cell vehicles is estimated to be $34 million this year and is expected to rise to $208 million five years from now, according to a new report to be released by Business Communications Company, Inc., Norwalk, CT. The average annual growth rate for four main components - fuel cell module, hydrogen tank, advanced battery pack and electric traction motor/controller unit - is estimated at 42.8%. The authors expect that PEM fuel cell engines will be the power plant of choice for fuel cell vehicles, but solid oxide fuel cells may have a role in powering auxiliary power units. Among hydrogen storage options, the report sees on-board reformers as falling from favor, and interstitial metal hydrides as attracting more interest, in addition to the other two main choices, pressurized gas and cryogenic liquid. The report says Japanese automakers appear to be gaining an “unsurmountable lead in new vehicular technologies, manufacturing innovation, and management vision,” but adding “nothing is certain in the automotive business.” Contact: BCC, Malika Rajan, phone 203/853-4266, x 309; publisher@bccresearch.com.