Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles Make Pit Stop in Laguna Niguel

Hydrogen fuel cell cars are expected to be the next 'it' car, and residents recently had a chance to see why.

In fact, many, like who also takes photos for Laguna Niguel Patch, had an early opportunity to drive one of these cutting-edge vehicles April 7, when the California Fuel Cell Partnership set up shop at for a "ride and drive." Here's what MacLeod had to say about his experience:

Under the threat of rain, which is Mother Nature's green, I test-drove various hydrogen cell cars and sport utility vehicles, and I must say, I was impressed with the acceleration and overall handling. 

Mercedes-Benz, which was one of the test cars, offers a lease for 24 to 36 months. With it comes free maintenance and insurance for a maximum of 36 months (max 37,500 miles). 

The event, sponsored by the 30-member California Fuel Cell Partnership, is a collaboration of auto manufactures, energy providers, government agencies, technology companies and transit companies that promotes the commercialization of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.  

Vehicles powered by hydrogen are a long-term solution to air-quality, energy-dependence and climate-change issues. 

They also have great acceleration, are fuel-efficient, virtually silent and emit only heat and water.

I also learned that every country and region of the world can produce hydrogen cell vehicles from a variety of sources. Hydrogen can be made from renewable sources of energy. Currently, most of these vehicles average 250 to 300 miles on a tank of hydrogen. American consumers expect cars to average 300 miles before refueling. Hydrogen fuel cells might last the lifetime of the vehicle, or about 150,000 miles.

What about when you need to refuel? The nearest hydrogen fuel station is in the UC Irvine area, but don't worry. There is a proposed station at the corner of Crown Valley and Niguel Road. 

Despite the drizzle, it was a fun experience, and I truly enjoyed driving a number of these hydrogen fuel cell vehicles that undoubtedly will be more common in the very near future.