On 17th September, Vancouver, Canada – Ballard Power Systems hosted Chinese President, Hu Jintao, and his delegation for an official visit that included tours of Ballard’s research, development and manufacturing facilities and an opportunity to ride in a Ballard-powered Ford Focus fuel cell car.  The visit provided Ballard with an opportunity to showcase its technology and its manufacturing capability.

　“We believe today’s meeting is an indication of how serious China is about the role hydrogen and fuel cell technology can play in meeting China’s energy and transportation needs,” said Dennis Campbell, Ballard’s President and Chief Executive Officer.  “Robust economic growth, rapid urbanization and soaring demand for personal mobility in China is adversely affecting air quality and increasing China’s dependence on imported oil. Fuel cell technology is one of several ways in which China can address these challenges.  Ballard has been working with China’s Ministry of Science and Technology to explore possible areas of cooperation.  The visit today by President Hu Jintao reinforces China’s commitment to seeking sustainable development.”

　To date, Ballard has provided three fuel cell powertrains to its partner and customer, DaimlerChrysler, to power three Mercedes Benz Citaro fuel cell buses that will enter revenue service in Beijing later this year.