Suzuki and Intelligent Energy to Strengthen Hydrogen Motorcycle Project

Leading fuel cell power systems company Intelligent Energy has strengthened its relationship with the Suzuki Motor Corporation having executed a further development agreement which envisages the progression to commercially viable fuel cell motorcycles.

Through this substantial investment in Intelligent Energy’s fuel cell technology, Suzuki has demonstrated its commitment to clean transport innovation and solutions.

The collaboration has already resulted in the Suzuki Crosscage, a hydrogen fuelled concept motorcycle unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor show.

Intelligent Energy’s high performance fuel cell power systems coupled with Suzuki’s commitment to low-emissions transport mean the reality of hydrogen powered motorcycles is closer than ever.

“This is an important next step for our collaboration with Suzuki as we move from a very successful concept toward a range of commercially viable fuel cell motorcycles” commented Phil Caldwell, director of business development at Intelligent Energy. “We have developed an excellent relationship with Suzuki over the past two years and this agreement further strengthens our partnership.”

“Our fuel cells are efficient, robust, and emit zero carbon at the tailpipe”, added Henri Winand, chief executive of Intelligent Energy.

“Both Intelligent Energy and Suzuki are committed to the development of cleaner and more responsible vehicles for the consumer. The Crosscage is an example of what can be achieved when invention meets ambition, and we’re looking forward to the next phase in the relationship.”

Intelligent Energy’s proprietary Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell designs are based on the use of thin metallic plates, which make the fuel cell stack compact and amenable to mass manufacture. Fuel cells generate power from hydrogen, producing water as the only by-product. In addition to its range of fuel cells, Intelligent Energy is actively engaged in developing hydrogen generation technology. As the automotive sector increasingly turns to alternative fuels, Suzuki and Intelligent Energy are at the forefront of making hydrogen a major player in the future of clean motorcycle transport.

[source: Suzuki]