Project partners have teamed to create a one-of-a-kind product to benefit the local environment and economy. Two TUG M1 tow tractors will be placed into service with Delta Airlines as baggage carriers at the Orlando International Airport later this summer. They will be powered by a Ford 4.2-liter, V-6 industrial engine converted and calibrated to operate on gaseous hydrogen. The proof-of-concept hydrogen fueled engines will create approximately 80 horsepower at 3600 RPM - naturally aspirated. The engine delivers up to a 99.7 percent reduction in CO2, making them an ideal solution for the airport environment where emissions levels are strictly regulated. The tow tractors emit near zero tailpipe emissions, with the main by-product being water, without utilizing an exhaust after-treatment system.

"This project is envisioned to lead the way for other hydrogen fueled products for private, commercial and industrial use in a variety of global applications," said Jack Damron, director of Ford Power Products.

Ford Power Products, a leading supplier of Ford powertrains to the industrial market, has a long standing working relationship with TUG Technologies. TUG Technologies is a partner and valued customer of Ford which uses the company's powertrains in a variety of ground support applications. Ford's 4.2-liter engine has been a key power source to the ground support equipment market in gasoline, natural gas and liquid petroleum gas configurations. "Our existing partnerships create a natural fit for us to work with TUG and the state of Florida to introduce hydrogen internal combustion engine technology to the airline ground support industry," said John Andreas, manager engineering and programs for Ford Power Products.
 

Ford Motor Company is advancing hydrogen fuel technologies as a way of reducing mobile and stationary emissions and reducing our 
nation's energy dependence on fossil fuels. Ford is the only automaker actively involved in developing four alternative fuel and powertrain technologies – gasoline-electric hybrids, clean diesels, hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines and hydrogen fuel cells.

In addition to the tow tractors, Ford will also produce eight V-10, E-450 shuttle buses powered by hydrogen internal combustion engines for Florida. The state will operate the shuttles in the Orlando area, including the Orlando airport, upon delivery in 2006. The Orlando airport projects will allow for real world operating experience and data gathering. They also support "H2 Florida," a statewide initiative to grow the hydrogen technology industry, spur investment and economic opportunity and safeguard the nation's natural resources.