January 19th, 2010
Hydrogen Convergence should really be about Big Rig Trucks
One of the things that we at the ebTDesign Forum find most confusing about the mainstream media’s coverage of hydrogen convergence is their pre-occupation with small successes. The DOE released an RFP for a hydrogen storage system for the Yard Dog. It’s just a matter of time before some major media outlet talks about the innovation behind a hydrogen powered yard tractor.
Unfortunately too little coverage will probably be given to the work being done at the Port of Los Angeles on the hydrogen big rig truck. Where is the RFP for additional innovation on 18 wheelers and hydrogen refueling stations to support them? While the Navy is an honorable client, small trucking companies need much more protection from radical changes in energy prices.
There was a lot of discussion about hydrogen forklifts this summer during the debate about continuing the funding for hydrogen car research. However, there was very little talk about long-haul truckers and how they are being crushed by energy costs. Solving the problems of a large economy like the United States requires big solutions like hydrogen convergence and the people in small town America deserve them.
PS: The Navy will benefit too.
Zachary Alexander
Concepts: big rig, DOE, hydrogen, Navy