The National Hydrogen Association (NHA) Hydrogen Conference and Expo is coming to Long Beach, California next week, May 3 – 6, 2010. There are expected to be 1,500 attendees, 150 speakers and over 100 exhibitors.
Two of the exhibitors I’m interested in speaking with include SunHydro who have stated that they intend on building an East Coast Hydrogen Highway system and ITM Power who are building low cost electrolysis-based hydrogen fueling stations (SunHydro for sure will be there, but I have yet to confirm ITM Power will be there as well).
But, the main event in my eyes is Public Day including the free Ride ‘n’ Drive event. On Tuesday, May 4, 2010 from 10 am – 4:30 pm the public is invited to drive or ride in one of the hydrogen cars or vehicles at the Expo. Entrance into the Exposition is also free on Public Day.
What is so special about this Ride ‘n’ Drive event is that there will be several firsts. For instance, this will be the first time the public will be able to test drive the Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-CELL vehicle. A few years ago when I was at the NHA Conference and Expo, I received the opportunity to drive the Mercedes F-Cell A-Class, so I’m looking forward to taking this upgraded vehicle for a spin.
Another first will be the opportunity to drive the Mazda RX-8 RE rotary engine dual fuel vehicle. And yet another first will be the opportunity to ride in the Class 8 Vision Tyrano Hydrogen Fuel Cell Truck. And for me personally, I have yet to take the Honda Clarity out for a spin so this will be a special treat.
There is one more item that has piqued my interest about the Ride ‘n’ Drive and that is in the lineup of hydrogen vehicles to drive is listed a “Chevy Fuel Cell EV”. Now, this most likely will be the Chevy Equinox Fuel Cell, but could there be a surprise announcement? I guess we’ll just have to go to the conference to see.
No matter, however, since the new technology inside the Expo and new vehicles for the Ride ‘n’ Drive will be the most exciting and engaging to date.
Wow, Kevin, thanks! We couldn’t have written this better ourselves. We’re starting to see more news pour in about announcements and such so please monitor this page where we’ll be posting all the new stuff:
Looking forward to seeing everyone in Long Beach next week!