Ann Arbor Times

Officials from the University of Michigan and the University of California, Riverside, have joined forces with industry partners to launch the Hydrogen Engine Alliance of North America (H2EA-NA). This new initiative aims to promote hydrogen as an alternative fuel for internal combustion engines (ICEs) and support the transition to electric and zero-emission technologies.

André Boehman, U-M Vennema Professor of Engineering and director of the Walter E. Lay Automotive Engineering Laboratory, explained that hydrogen in ICEs could provide a "low-carbon, long-term solution for transportation," particularly where battery electric or fuel cell vehicles fall short. A demonstration by Southwest Research Institute showed hydrogen ICE technology in a heavy-duty truck produced ultra-low nitrogen oxides emissions, far below those from diesel trucks.

Boehman will co-direct H2EA-NA with Georgios Karavalakis, a UCR professor whose work includes combustion engines and low-carbon fuels. Principal investigator Wayne Miller highlighted hydrogen's potential for a cleaner energy future through its use in ICEs.

The alliance seeks to advance North America's role in hydrogen innovation compared to leaders like China, Germany, and Japan. Karavalakis noted barriers such as infrastructure costs and public awareness that have hindered U.S. progress despite existing technologies.

H2EA-NA will host its inaugural conference on May 1-2, 2025, at the California Air Resources Board headquarters in Riverside. The event will include networking opportunities and discussions on technological advancements and policy initiatives essential for developing the hydrogen ecosystem.

Funded by annual membership fees from participating companies directed to the nonprofit U.C. Riverside Foundation, H2EA-NA aims to educate about hydrogen's potential in transportation. Membership offers access to emerging technologies and market trends.

For more information or membership inquiries, visit the H2EA-NA website.