By 2017, automakers expect to place tens of thousands of fuel cell vehicles in the hands of California consumers. Today, about 250 fuel cell vehicles have been placed on California’s roads and fill at only 25 hydrogen stations in the state. As the number of FCVs in California increases over the next 5-10 years, its crucial that hydrogen be easily available to the drivers. A good experience for the first FCV drivers will build early success.

In July, 2008, CaFCP’s members published a consensus vision of the rollout of hydrogen stations and FCVs between now and 2017. This vision document provides the foundation to building a commercial market.

• Automakers project thousands of FCVs will be available for California consumers in the 2012-2015 timeframe.
• The early hydrogen stations should be constructed using a combination of industry and government funding. As a rough estimate, the State of California should plan to spend about $90 million (through 2013) for hydrogen fuel stations to support the pre-commercial vehicle phase.
• California needs to establish a network of early hydrogen fuel stations in key markets such as Los Angeles and San Francisco-Sacramento areas.
• Estimated capital costs are approximately $2-4 million, not including land or operating costs. Early hydrogen stations could dispense fuel for $4-6.50 per gasoline gallon equivalent on a mileage basis. The cost of fuel will decrease with economies of scale.

Download the documents:

Moving toward a commercial market for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
Vision for Rollout of Fuel Cell Vehicles and Hydrogen Fuel Stations