Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car Draws Attention, Excitement, But Lack Of Fueling Stations A Worry
ROSEVILLE (CBS13) — The first fuel cell car is being commercially rolled out in the Sacramento area, and drivers at a Roseville car dealership are getting a chance to test drive one.
At Roseville Toyota, a handful of eager drivers took the new, hydrogen-fueled Mirai out for a spin. The onboard hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity, powering the car's 153-horsepower electric motors with a 300-mile range. It promises to fill up in less than five minutes and its only exhaust is water.
"There's a low center of gravity, the fuel cell stack is underneath the seat. You really feel that when you drive," Judy Cunningham said.
But Steve Goodman says it's hard to commit with a $57,000 price and a lack of fueling stations.
"I would drive off with one as soon as it's available, but I have to make sure they've got fueling stations that are within range for me to use," he said.
Currently the only retail hydrogen station is in West Sacramento on South River Road, but the California Fuel Cell Partnership says there will be another 20 across the state in the next year, with a goal of 100 over the next couple of years.