# Fuel Cells on The No Agenda Show Fuel Cells comes up in 18 chapters across 17 episodes of The No Agenda Show, from January 2008 to July 2025. - **Chapters:** 18 - **Episodes:** 17 - **Discussed:** January 2008 – July 2025 - **Related topics:** [Hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), [Toyota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota.md), [Infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md), [Toyota Mirai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota-mirai.md), [Electric Vehicles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electric-vehicles.md), [Energy Density](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/energy-density.md), [Green Energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-energy.md), [John Doerr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-doerr.md), [Kleiner Perkins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kleiner-perkins.md), [Airbus A380](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airbus-a380.md) ## Chapters 1–18 of 18 ### Hydrogen Vehicle Skepticism, Clean Hydrogen Tax Credits - **Episode:** [1778: Three Holes One Bag](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1778-three-holes-one-bag.md) - **Published:** 2025-07-03 - **Time:** 1:52:31–1:54:56 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1778-three-holes-one-bag/chapter/hydrogen-vehicle-skepticism-clean-hydrogen-tax-credits.md Despite President Trump's public skepticism regarding the safety of hydrogen-powered cars, the "Big Beautiful Bill" included a surprise two-year extension for clean hydrogen tax credits. Toyota remains the primary developer of hydrogen fuel cell technology, though infrastructure challenges and safety concerns like station fires continue to hinder widespread adoption. Keywords: [hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), [toyota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota.md), [tax credits](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-credits.md), ev mandate, [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md) ### Airbus Hydrogen Plane, False Civilization Transition, Port of Rotterdam - **Episode:** [1511: SEERS](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1511-seers.md) - **Published:** 2022-12-11 - **Time:** 1:55:39–1:59:32 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1511-seers/chapter/airbus-hydrogen-plane-false-civilization-transition-port-of-rotterdam.md Airbus announced plans to test a hydrogen-powered A380, the world's largest passenger aircraft. The Mayor of Rotterdam characterized the shift to hydrogen as a "fourth civilization transition" comparable to the move from the Stone Age to electricity. The hosts remain skeptical of the science, citing the poor power-to-weight ratio of hydrogen fuel cells for aviation. Keywords: [airbus a380](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airbus-a380.md), hydrogen plane, [rotterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rotterdam.md), [energy transition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/energy-transition.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md) ### Hydrogen Energy Transition, Canadian Infrastructure, and Electric Vehicle Skepticism - **Episode:** [1506: Dr. Whoopi](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1506-dr-whoopi.md) - **Published:** 2022-11-26 - **Time:** 34:44–37:27 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1506-dr-whoopi/chapter/hydrogen-energy-transition-canadian-infrastructure-and-electric-vehicle-skepticism.md Canada announced a $1.7 billion investment in a massive hydrogen plant in Edmonton, Alberta, aiming to become a North American energy hub. This shift toward a "clean hydrogen grid" coincides with the first run of a hydrogen-powered locomotive by Canadian Pacific. The transition marks a pivot in global energy policy away from a pure focus on battery-electric vehicles toward fuel cell technology. Keywords: [hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), [edmonton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edmonton.md), [canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md), [green deal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-deal.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md) ### Hydrogen Fuel Cells, Combustion Engine History - **Episode:** [1505: Cat's Paw](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1505-cat-s-paw.md) - **Published:** 2022-11-20 - **Time:** 20:51–27:27 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1505-cat-s-paw/chapter/hydrogen-fuel-cells-combustion-engine-history.md A host recounted test-driving hydrogen fuel cell vehicles fifteen years ago, noting the high-pitched "screaming" noise they produced. The discussion compared fuel cell technology, which generates electricity to drive a motor, with hydrogen combustion engines that function similarly to gasoline engines. Concerns remain regarding the safety and storage of hydrogen tanks, which require extremely high pressure. Keywords: [hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), [toyota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota.md), combustion engines, automotive technology ### Electric Vehicle Charging Limitations and Hydrogen Fuel Cells - **Episode:** [1488: Torture Telephone](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1488-torture-telephone.md) - **Published:** 2022-09-22 - **Time:** 25:42–30:38 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1488-torture-telephone/chapter/electric-vehicle-charging-limitations-and-hydrogen-fuel-cells.md The practical limitations of electric vehicles are highlighted by long charging wait times at stations in locations like Barstow, California. Hydrogen fuel cells are discussed as a faster-refueling alternative, though the process of creating "green hydrogen" via electrolysis is criticized for potential energy waste. While Toyota continues to develop hydrogen models, the broader industry remains focused on battery technology that has seen limited fundamental improvement in decades. Keywords: [electric vehicles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electric-vehicles.md), hydrogen fuel cells, [toyota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota.md), [tesla](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tesla.md), [energy density](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/energy-density.md) ### John Steck Emails, Wet Bulb Temperature, Fuel Cells - **Episode:** [1461: Bi-Pox](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1461-bi-pox.md) - **Published:** 2022-06-19 - **Time:** 1:18:29–1:26:14 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1461-bi-pox/chapter/john-steck-emails-wet-bulb-temperature-fuel-cells.md A series of critical emails from listener John Steck are read, mocking the hosts' lack of knowledge regarding "wet bulb" temperatures and fuel cell technology. Steck shares anecdotes from his time working in the Middle East and India to explain the dangers of high humidity on the human body's ability to cool itself. Keywords: [john steck](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-steck.md), wet bulb, [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), [saudi arabia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/saudi-arabia.md), relative humidity ### Hydrogen Fuel Cells, Cold Weather Failures and Toyota Mirai - **Episode:** [1460: Wet-Bulb](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1460-wet-bulb.md) - **Published:** 2022-06-16 - **Time:** 2:25:49–2:29:58 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1460-wet-bulb/chapter/hydrogen-fuel-cells-cold-weather-failures-and-toyota-mirai.md The viability of hydrogen fuel cells is questioned, particularly their performance in cold climates where exhaust water can freeze and block tailpipes. A report from Latham, New York, describes ice balls forming in testing rigs at 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite infrastructure challenges, hydrogen pumps are being installed in locations like Union Station in Los Angeles to support vehicles like the Toyota Mirai. Keywords: [hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), [toyota mirai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota-mirai.md), latham ny, [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md) ### Toyota Mirai, Hydrogen Fuel Experience - **Episode:** [1457: MAGATARD](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1457-magatard.md) - **Published:** 2022-06-05 - **Time:** 2:02:48–2:07:49 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1457-magatard/chapter/toyota-mirai-hydrogen-fuel-experience.md A listener shares their experience leasing a 2018 Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in California. While the car offered significant rebates and free fuel, the infrastructure was plagued by offline stations and freezing fuel nozzles. The report concludes that hydrogen will not be a viable alternative to gasoline in the U.S. without a dedicated pipeline system. Keywords: [toyota mirai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota-mirai.md), [hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), fuel cell, [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [torrance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/torrance.md), [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md) ### Hydrogen Economy Challenges, Infrastructure and Safety Concerns - **Episode:** [1454: Green Transition](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1454-green-transition.md) - **Published:** 2022-05-26 - **Time:** 43:40–50:38 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1454-green-transition/chapter/hydrogen-economy-challenges-infrastructure-and-safety-concerns.md The technical feasibility of a "hydrogen economy" is debated, noting the difficulties of storing and transporting the gas due to its tendency to leak through steel. While hydrogen offers faster refueling than electric vehicle batteries, concerns are raised regarding the invisibility of hydrogen fires and the high cost of infrastructure conversion. Keywords: [hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), [green energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-energy.md), [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md), leakage, [safety](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/safety.md) ### Hydrogen-Powered Cars, Boris Johnson Green Plan, Lithium Mining - **Episode:** [1296: Kraken Keeper](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1296-kraken-keeper.md) - **Published:** 2020-11-20 - **Time:** 1:14:46–1:20:28 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1296-kraken-keeper/chapter/hydrogen-powered-cars-boris-johnson-green-plan-lithium-mining.md UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a 10-point "Green Plan" that emphasizes hydrogen power as an alternative to fossil fuels. While hydrogen fuel cells offer a driving experience similar to traditional cars, the energy required for electrolysis remains a challenge. Critics suggest the shift toward hydrogen is driven by the environmental damage caused by lithium mining for batteries and the government's need to maintain fuel tax revenue. Keywords: [boris johnson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boris-johnson.md), [hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), [electric vehicles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electric-vehicles.md), [lithium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lithium.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), [taxes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/taxes.md) ### Small Modular Nuclear Reactors, Federal Clean Energy Goals - **Episode:** [706: Scrub In!](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/706-scrub-in.md) - **Published:** 2015-03-22 - **Time:** 42:17–45:19 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/706-scrub-in/chapter/small-modular-nuclear-reactors-federal-clean-energy-goals.md The 2015 federal sustainability executive order sets a goal for 25% of federal building energy to come from clean sources by 2025. The plan includes the utilization of small modular nuclear reactor technologies and on-site fuel cell energy systems. It also outlines strategies for the active capture and storage of carbon dioxide emissions at federal facilities. Keywords: [nuclear energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nuclear-energy.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), [clean energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clean-energy.md), [carbon capture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-capture.md), [renewable energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/renewable-energy.md) ### Toyota Mirai Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car Launch and Infrastructure Costs - **Episode:** [675: Aristocrats!](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/675-aristocrats.md) - **Published:** 2014-12-04 - **Time:** 1:44:46–1:48:14 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/675-aristocrats/chapter/toyota-mirai-hydrogen-fuel-cell-car-launch-and-infrastructure-costs.md Toyota unveiled the Mirai, a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle marketed as the "future" of eco-friendly transportation. However, the high cost of refueling stations—estimated at $4.3 million each—poses a significant barrier to the widespread adoption of a hydrogen-based automotive economy. Keywords: [toyota mirai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota-mirai.md), hydrogen fuel cell, akio toyoda, [green energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-energy.md), [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md) ### Bloom Energy Fuel Cell Scam, Natural Gas Infrastructure - **Episode:** [526: #meh!](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/526-meh.md) - **Published:** 2013-06-30 - **Time:** 9:49–20:46 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/526-meh/chapter/bloom-energy-fuel-cell-scam-natural-gas-infrastructure.md Bloom Energy, a Silicon Valley startup funded by Kleiner Perkins and John Doerr, is promoted as a "power plant in a box" that allegedly turns natural gas into electricity via electromechanical reactions. Industry insiders suggest the technology is a front for natural gas-fired plants and relies on government tax credits rather than true innovation. Speculation suggests an upcoming IPO is designed to allow early investors to exit before the technology's inefficiencies are fully exposed. Keywords: bloom energy, [kleiner perkins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kleiner-perkins.md), [john doerr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-doerr.md), [natural gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/natural-gas.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md) ### Hydrogen Cars, Wood-Burning Generators - **Episode:** [526: #meh!](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/526-meh.md) - **Published:** 2013-06-30 - **Time:** 28:07–30:49 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/526-meh/chapter/hydrogen-cars-wood-burning-generators.md Hydrogen car technology is criticized for its high-pitched operational noise and the danger of high-pressure fuel tanks reaching 10,000 pounds per square inch. Historical "gassogene" or wood-burning cars from World War II are discussed as a functional alternative for generating power. Modern 10-kilowatt wood-burning generators are available but remain expensive for home use. Keywords: hydrogen cars, [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), gassogene, wood burning, energy technology ### Bloombox Deconstruction, Kleiner Perkins Exit Strategy - **Episode:** [178: HAARP-ing on Earthquakes](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/178-haarp-ing-on-earthquakes.md) - **Published:** 2010-02-28 - **Time:** 2:03:11–2:12:00 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/178-haarp-ing-on-earthquakes/chapter/bloombox-deconstruction-kleiner-perkins-exit-strategy.md The hosts deconstruct the "Bloombox" fuel cell technology featured on 60 Minutes. They characterize the media blitz as a PR setup designed to facilitate an exit for venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins. They suggest the ultimate goal is to sell the company to General Electric, noting that both John Doerr and GE's Jeffrey Immelt serve as advisors to the Obama administration. Keywords: bloombox, [john doerr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-doerr.md), [kleiner perkins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kleiner-perkins.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md), [general electric](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/general-electric.md) ### Bloom Box Scam and Rip Torn Bank Incident - **Episode:** [177: Vajazzling the Slutsquad](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/177-vajazzling-the-slutsquad.md) - **Published:** 2010-02-25 - **Time:** 2:03:13–2:08:04 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/177-vajazzling-the-slutsquad/chapter/bloom-box-scam-and-rip-torn-bank-incident.md The "Bloom Box" fuel cell technology is dismissed as a Silicon Valley insider scam. The show concludes with a reference to actor Rip Torn's arrest for breaking into a bank he mistook for his home and a David Letterman monologue mocking the Toyota recall. The hosts sign off from the "Crackpot Command Center" in California. Keywords: bloom box, [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), rip torn, [david letterman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-letterman.md), [toyota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md) ### Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars, Hydroxy Boosters and Engine Performance - **Episode:** [41: Planes Trains and Lyndon LaRouche](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/41-planes-trains-and-lyndon-larouche.md) - **Published:** 2008-08-03 - **Time:** 1:00:07–1:04:37 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/41-planes-trains-and-lyndon-larouche/chapter/hydrogen-fuel-cell-cars-hydroxy-boosters-and-engine-performance.md The hosts discuss the practical drawbacks of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, including the high-pitched "screeching" noise they emit and the danger of 10,000 PSI pressurized tanks. Curry shares his personal experience using a "hydroxy booster" in his car, debating whether his improved fuel mileage is due to the device or changes in his driving habits and engine management. Keywords: fuel cell, hydrogen car, [hydroxy booster](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydroxy-booster.md), engine management, [cruise control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cruise-control.md) ### Hydrogen Fuel Cell Challenges, Compressed Air Vehicles - **Episode:** [12: Lawsuit Crazy](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/12-lawsuit-crazy.md) - **Published:** 2008-01-12 - **Time:** 36:12–38:56 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/12-lawsuit-crazy/chapter/hydrogen-fuel-cell-challenges-compressed-air-vehicles.md John C. Dvorak explains the technical limitations of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, citing low energy density and the extreme pressure required for storage. He describes his experiences driving hydrogen prototypes from Honda, Toyota, and Ford, noting their high cost and limited range. The hosts also briefly discuss the "Air Car," a hybrid vehicle utilizing compressed air for propulsion. Keywords: [hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), [fuel cells](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-cells.md), [honda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/honda.md), [toyota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota.md), [compressed air](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/compressed-air.md), [energy density](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/energy-density.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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