Hydrogen fuel cells in vehicles: Future is now

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The future is now when it comes to hydrogen fuel cell technology. There are more options available, including Hyundai's first alternative fuel vehicle, the new Tucson compact SUV.

The Tucson SUV doesn't really stand out on the road. Unless of course you notice the badges. No gasoline for this one. It runs courtesy of a hydrogen fuel cell.

"It's the next generation of zero-emissions, and we think consumers are going to love these vehicles," said Hyundai spokesman Derek Joyce.

Hydrogen is stored in a high-pressure tank, goes to the fuel cell, which then turns it into electricity to move the vehicle. The only byproduct is a bit of water vapor out of a special tailpipe.

Aside from their Sonata hybrid sedan, this is Hyundai's first foray into alternative-fuel vehicles. The company plans to get the ball rolling with an attractive price for such a high-tech vehicle.

"It's 499 per month for 36 months, and that includes unlimited free fuel throughout the life of your lease," said Joyce.

The Tucson actually isn't the first fuel-cell vehicle available to the public: It's one of three so far. The Honda FCX Clarity is available for lease, as is the Mercedes-Benz F-Cell. But you have to qualify for them.

You do have to qualify to lease Hyundai's as well, but their plan is to offer them in greater numbers than the others.

Toyota's also getting into the fuel-cell game next year with a futuristic-looking sedan. It should also be available in comparatively plentiful numbers, presumably at an attractive price.

But where do you do fill them up? Hydrogen stations are few and far between -- only seven currently.

But with more vehicles getting into the public's hands, that will soon change.

"We're expecting to expand to about 13 by the end of this year, and up to 20 by the end of next year," said Joyce.

Even so, for right now you have to apply to lease one of these new Hyundais so they can determine that you either live or work near one of the existing fuel stations.

But as more stations are built, it will be easier to qualify to be someone who could be driving the future of transportation, today.