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The director of Boeing's research center at Ocana, Francisco Escarti, said it "could be the main source of energy for a small plane" but would likely not become the "primary source of energy for big passenger planes." "The company will continue to explore their potential as well as that of all durable sources of energy that boost environmental performance," he said. Demand for cleaner, safer and more fuel-efficient vehicles and airplanes is growing amid rising fuel costs and mounting concerns over pollution and climate change. Several auto makers, including General Motors, Nissan and BMW, are working on the development of hydrogen-powered cars. "Boeing recognizes that pollution represents a serious environmental challenge," Tracy said. Boeing's first new model in over a decade, the Dreamliner, uses high-tech composites which reduces its weight and which the company says will make it consume 20 percent less fuel then similar-sized planes already on the market. The International Energy Agency has said that hydrogen and hydrogen fuel cells could play a key role in weaning energy users away from oil, gas and coal which have been blamed for climate change. Related Links: Tracy Staedter's blog: What the Tech? |
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