GM to move fuel cell research from NY to Michigan

DETROIT -- General Motors Co. said Friday that it plans to close its hydrogen fuel-cell research operation near Rochester, N.Y., and move about 220 jobs to Michigan.

The Detroit-based automaker said the move will bring together experts on engine and transmission technology.

Most of the 220 salaried workers in Honeoye Falls, N.Y., will be offered the chance to move to GM's powertrain operations in Pontiac, Mich., north of Detroit.

GM will still work on electric vehicles and fuel-cell development, GM spokeswoman Kimberly Carpenter said.

Fuel cells make electricity from chemical reactions involving hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water vapor as a product. Electric motors then power the cars, trucks and buses. Most fuel-cell vehicles now are in government and commercial test fleets.

Carpenter said GM will save money by not renewing a building lease in Honeoye Falls, which is about 20 miles south of Rochester. The move will take place in the first quarter of next year, she said.