Hybrid electric cars driving opportunities in B.C.

by Jillian Glover
WD Communications, Vancouver

Feeling the pinch at the gasoline pump? The rising cost of fuel has more people considering alternative energy vehicles. However, experts estimate that it may be anywhere from 10 to 30 years before hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles are commonplace. In the meantime, the popularity of electric and hybrid electric vehicles is rising as fast as gasoline prices.

The interest is evident in auto dealers’ showrooms as Toyota’s Prius and Honda’s Civic Hybrid attract customers. Toyota cannot keep up with the demand for its new Prius, and Ford has made its move by releasing its SUV hybrid (Ford Escape Hybrid).

To address the hybrid electric car boom, the University College of the Fraser Valley (UCFV) in Abbotsford, B.C., conducted a study to assess the hybrid sector in B.C. and determine the feasibility of establishing an Alternative Vehicle Centre. The study was supported by Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD).

By investing in environmental technologies, Canadians are protecting their natural environment, saving energy costs, and developing high technology business opportunities. Many of the latest developments in the alternative energy sector have been supported through WD investments.

Companies from B.C.—particularly Greater Vancouver—are among the global leaders in fuel-cell technology innovation. The UCFV study found that the high number of alternative vehicle research facilities in British Columbia indicates that the province has excellent automotive engine and fuel cell laboratories and institutions. However, electric and hybrid electric vehicle facilities are not as prevalent. According to UCFV, British Columbia can fill this gap by establishing an Alternative Vehicle Centre.

“Electric and hybrid electric vehicles hold exceptional promise with respect to improving fuel efficiency and air quality in the Fraser Valley,” said Harvey McCullough, dean of trades & technology at the University College of the Fraser Valley. “With an Alternative Vehicle Centre, B.C. has an opportunity to showcase its advances in hybrid electric technology.”

The study also found that an Alternative Vehicle Centre in B.C. would increase applied research and technology transfer capabilities, and help the province meet its responsibility to promote sustainable development and environmental protection.

The centre would foster a wide range of projects. Currently, UCFV, in partnership with the University of Colorado at Denver, and ECO Fuel Systems of Langley, is testing and researching the functionality of natural gas in a hybrid vehicle. Most hybrid electric vehicles use fossil fuels, which negatively impact air quality. The partners have successfully converted a gasoline-powered 2005 Ford Escape hybrid electric vehicle to a natural gas/gasoline dual-fuel system. This modified natural gas hybrid is the first passenger vehicle prototype of its kind.

“With this new discovery, and the potential of establishing an Alternative Vehicle Centre, B.C. can lead the way in sustainable development,” said McCullough.