"In these times when breaking our dependence on fossil fuels and gaining energy self-sufficiency is critical, San Francisco is demonstrating the viability of clean, alternative technologies," said Mayor Gavin Newsom. "San Francisco is poised to become the premier stop on California's hydrogen highway."

A hydrogen fueling station will be built by the end of April at the City's Central Shop facility, which already services the City's other alternative fuel vehicles. The Honda FCX can travel 170 miles (EPA estimate), and features state-of-the-art technology developed by Honda through its experience with of battery-electric, natural gas and gas-electric hybrid vehicles. These elements represent the next leap in the evolution of clean air transportation and include a braking system that recharges the vehicle's ultra-capacitor, as well as an advanced computer system that monitors and regulates the car's performance.

"Ten years ago fuel cell vehicles seemed like science fiction, but the fact that we're able to drive these cars today on the streets of San Francisco makes me believe that eliminating harmful vehicle emissions is not only possible, but certain," said SF Environment director Jared Blumenfeld.

The hydrogen fuel cell pilot project will demonstrate how well these vehicles will perform in San Francisco's unique terrain. It will also provide an opportunity for the city's Fire Marshall, health and safety officials and fleet maintenance personnel to understand hydrogen's unique properties, paving the way for the future use of this clean alternative fuel. The City will share its experience with other fleet operators and municipalities in the Bay Area and beyond.

"This project makes a significant down payment on our energy and environmental future and will ensure a better life for our children," observed California Environmental Protection Agency Secretary Terry Tamminen.

The Honda FCX is the first fuel cell vehicle to be certified by the California Air Resources Board and the EPA, and is considered a zero emission vehicle (ZEV). The vehicles will be used to conduct official city business, and will be rotated among various individuals including Mayor Newsom. All potential drivers will be properly trained prior to use.

"San Francisco is demonstrating great vision by taking part today in what will likely be the transportation standard of the future. This program helps bring the vision of a hydrogen economy closer to reality, and demonstrates the Honda FCX is a practical vehicle for today's world" said Gunnar Lindstrom of American Honda Motors.

While San Francisco was able to lease these vehicles as part of an early demonstration program, fuel cell cars will not likely be commercially available to the public for another ten years. Funding for this program came from a variety of sources including the Goldman Fund, PG&E, Transportation Fund for Clean Air, and the U.S. Department of Energy.

The City's fleet currently operates over 700 clean air vehicles, including street sweepers, parking control vehicles, and police squad cars that run on natural gas; zero emission battery electric vehicles in the vehicle pool; and neighborhood electric vehicles for use in parks and open spaces. Other city-sponsored programs include low emission taxicabs and a fleet of natural gas long-haul garbage trucks.