The UC Davis Institute of Transportation Studies will soon receive a second fuel-cell-powered Toyota SUV for its research and teaching programs. UC Davis's first fuel-cell Toyota has been constantly busy with public outreach events and initial research since it was launched early this year.

ITS-Davis will use both Toyotas to conduct the first public evaluation of American consumer reactions to the new automotive technology.

Cars powered by fuel cells have zero tailpipe emissions and greatly reduce greenhouse gases compared with existing internal-combustion engines using gasoline or diesel.

The new fuel-cell hydrogen vehicle, or FCHV, has been improved for U.S. use, including left-hand-drive operation, improved braking performance and a new navigation system.

The addition will bring the total number of Toyota FCHVs on the road globally to 18. Two will be at UC Davis, two at UC Irvine, three with the California Fuel Cell Partnership in West Sacramento, one at Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., and 10 with Japanese government agencies and private companies.

The UC Davis Institute of Transportation Studies has the world's most diverse research programs on travel behavior, advanced vehicle technology and environmental impacts of transportation.