The University of California, Riverside (UCR), the University of Michigan, and several industry partners launched the Hydrogen Engine Alliance of North America (H2EA-NA). The alliance will promote hydrogen as a viable alternative fuel that can complement ICE vehicles while supporting the transition to electric and other zero emission technologies.

Our goal is to leverage hydrogen as a low-carbon solution that can enhance the performance and sustainability of internal combustion engines. Hydrogen-powered ICEs can provide a long-term, reliable solution, particularly for applications where battery electric or fuel cell vehicles may not meet consumer performance requirements.

—Georgios Karavalakis, co-director of H2EA-NA and professor of chemical and environmental engineering at UCR

A recent demonstration by Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) of hydrogen ICE technology in a heavy-duty truck showed ultra-low emissions of NO_x, which react in the atmosphere with other pollutants to form lung irritating ozone. The NO_x levels were far below those achievable with conventional diesel-powered trucks. This reinforces the potential for hydrogen to help achieve meaningful reductions in transportation-related emissions.

Karavalakis and Wayne Miller, also a professor of chemical and environmental engineering at UCR, will serve as co-directors of H2EA-NA. Karavalakis brings expertise in combustion engines, low- and zero-carbon fuels, and transportation emissions. Miller, a specialist in zero-carbon fuels, transportation emissions, and marine systems, played a critical role in the alliance’s formation.

André Boehman, a University of Michigan professor of mechanical engineering, will also join them as a co-director. Boehman’s research focuses on alternative fuels, fuel production, and energy conversion system thermodynamics.

H2EA-NA will be funded through annual membership fees from participating companies, with funds directed to the UC Riverside Foundation, a non-profit organization. These fees will be equally split between UCR and the University of Michigan to support alliance operations.