The Cadillac Provoq Fuel Cell Concept

GM claims to be committed to displacing petroleum as soon as possible, and they seem to be backing it up. Looking at the newly-unveiled Provoq fuel cell concept, you have to think Cadillac is near the cutting edge of green technology. This vehicle uses the lauded E-Flex propulsion system used on the Chevy Volt, but combines it with a fuel cell system and a lithium-ion battery to yield a vehicle that creates no emissions.

Fuel cell development is something I watch carefully, and I believe Cadillac’s use of the E-Flex/fuel cell combination is a major step forward in reducing oil dependence and carbon emissions.

This technology’s progress is imaginatively promising—like 100 times as cool as the breakthroughs in science that brought us key-chained electronic pets. The Provoq is using a fifth-generation fuel cell, which is half the size of its predecessor and produces more power. Going 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds, this fuel cell is improved 30 percent over the previous generation. This concept can make it 300 miles on a single fill of hydrogen, with 20 of those miles coming entirely from the battery. Making gains like this, I can see feasibility for this idea on the horizon.

Design-wise, you wouldn’t know the Provoq was anything but a fashionable, roomy crossover. It shows no extra bulk nor does it intrude on the roomy interior, and it really builds upon Cadillac’s sleek, sharp-edged look. I see this as great news for the brand and for the future of hydrogen-powered vehicles, that Cadillac can create a stylish, luxurious fuel cell at this stage in the technology’s development.

To assist in the vehicle’s efficiency, the Provoq has a roof-mounted solar panel that provides power for interior lighting and audio systems. Another feature aimed at efficiency is a front grille that closes at highway speed to reduce drag. I can just see myself pretending I’m Batman in this thing.

Currently, it seems you have to choose between what’s good for the environment and what is stylish, and, although the Provoq won’t hit showrooms anytime soon, this car certainly marries eco-friendly with luxury.

When might we see it? Although Cadillac has made a vehicle both luxurious and green, the expense of fuel cells and batteries still makes this concept rather cost-prohibitive. But as technology improves to allow more affordability, I expect Cadillac to be leading the way in luxury fuel cell vehicles.