Virgin/GM clean up at LAX

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Los Angeles International Airport is about to become a little cleaner. In an effort to reduce its carbon footprint (on the ground, at least), Virgin Atlantic Airways will be using Chevrolet Equinox fuel cell vehicles for the complimentary transfer service enjoyed by its Upper Class passengers at LAX.

This transatlantic partnership goes into action toward the end of March, when three of these hydrogen-fueled cars (whose only emission is water) will serve as a shuttle service between the airport and the LA area. Drivers will be provided by Music Express in Burbank.

“Our mission to be the sustainable airline is clear, both on the ground and in the air,” says Virgin head Sir Richard Branson. “Partnerships such as this with General Motors show that we are pioneering in the aviation industry when it comes to reducing emissions at every stage of our passengers’ journey.” Virgin and GM and are also looking into introducing the same type of service in New York.

The Equinox itself is a crossover vehicle with a battery pack stowed under the floor and three hydrogen tanks. The car has a range of 150 miles. Luckily, there’s a hydrogen re-fueling facility at LAX.

-- Colin Ryan