According to the publication of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the type of automotive fuel cell known as the proton exchange membrane, or PEM, has "demonstrated a power density as high as 1.35 kilowatts per liter, which is comparable to that of an internal combustion engine."

Current research has focused on design issues that will reduce the cost of PEMs and hence render the energy system financially feasible to automotive companies.

A fuel cell is a system that uses an electrochemical reaction to produce electrical energy with high efficiency and very low environmental emissions. In addition to the PEM, other types of fuel cells under development include the direct methanol, phosphoric acid, solid oxide, and molten carbonate systems.

This year, a molten carbonate fuel cell will be installed at Yale University in Connecticut to provide electric power in the Environmental Sciences Building. According to Mechanical Engineering, while the molten carbonate fuel cell has proven to be efficient and reliable in demonstration programs, "the widespread feasibility of these systems will depend on reducing costs."

Researchers are working hard to refine fuel cells and drive down costs in preparation for entry in commercial markets.

Says Mechanical Engineering: "Many adherents believe that fuel cell systems promise to provide benefits for a variety of purposes. Research and development organizations, manufacturers, and regulatory agencies are working to ensure that fuel cell systems fulfill their promise."

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