For Shell Eco-marathon, hydrogen fuel provides future-is-now perspective

DETROIT, April 22, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Sure, the annual Shell Eco-marathon represents a fascinating glimpse into the future of design, materials, and fuel technology. But, there are also intriguing exceptions -- for which the future is now.

Consider the fuel cells used by multiple entrants as propulsion system. Their zero-emission rides are powered by hydrogen - exclusively provided by global SEM partner The Linde Group. In addition to fueling cars, buses, forklifts and even bikes, hydrogen is used to refine petroleum, treat metals, produce fertilizer, and process foods.

Held annually in the U.S, Europe, and Asia, the Shell Eco-marathon is a unique competition that challenges students around the world to design, build and drive the most energy-efficient car. For 2016 – the sixth consecutive year of Linde's participation in the series – the event will be held in Detroit's Cobo Center, from April 22-24. All participating fuel cell-powered vehicles will run on Linde hydrogen.

"Many of the technologies on display at the Eco-marathon are in early stages of development, but hydrogen utilization already is a tangible reality," explains Mike Beckman, vice president, Key Customers and Hydrogen Fueling. "At Linde, we're confident that what we're seeing today is simply the tip of the iceberg."

To ensure the ready availability of this increasingly popular alternative fuel -- the most common element in the universe, incidentally -- Linde is establishing a network of hydrogen fueling stations throughout California, the state at the forefront of hydrogen use. These stations are currently located, or are soon to open, in Emeryville (an Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District-based station now being upgraded), Mountainview, Oakland (an Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District-based), San Juan Capistrano, San Ramos, and West Sacramento.

"Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles emit no tailpipe emissions, while at the same time offering consumers the convenience they need," says Oliver Bishop, General Manager for Hydrogen at Shell. "Collaboration with industry partners, alongside government, is essential for hydrogen to play a role in the future of transport."

The primary benefits of using hydrogen as a fuel are that emissions from fuel-cell vehicles consist of nothing but water; it's already being used successfully, and has been deployed as an industrial gas for more than a century; the infrastructure for hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles already exists, with significant growth expected; and infrastructure development has support around the world.

Linde's sponsor booth at the Shell Eco-marathon features information on hydrogen as a fuel.  

Linde North America, Inc., is a member of The Linde Group. In the 2015 financial year, The Linde Group generated revenue of USD 19.7 bn (EUR 17.944 bn), making it one of the leading gases and engineering companies in the world, with approximately 65,000 employees working in more than 100 countries worldwide. The strategy of The Linde Group is geared towards long-term profitable growth and focuses on the expansion of its international business with forward-looking products and services. Linde acts responsibly towards its shareholders, business partners, employees, society and the environment in every one of its business areas, regions and locations across the globe. The company is committed to technologies and products that unite the goals of customer value and sustainable development.

For more information, see The Linde Group online at www.linde.com

Visit www.shellecomarathon.us to learn more about this weekend of free programs for all ages.

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SOURCE Linde North America, Inc.

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