“It seems the advantages of methanol comes from the fact that you could get it from other sources, such as natural gas or via CO2 extracted from the air.”
The same fuel can be used in a conventional automobile, and a fuel cell - it’s a great transition fuel that way.
What was implied but not directly mentioned is that it is possible to create a “reversible” fuel cell. So when there is extra electricity, you make methanol, when you need extra power, you make it with the methanol - out of the air.
Granted, much more work on methanol fuel-cell membranes to make it work, but this is a real possibility, except for the fact that it won’t rely on midwest corn - so it’s politicaly non-viable.
“Granted, much more work on methanol fuel-cell membranes to make it work, but this is a real possibility, except for the fact that it won’t rely on midwest corn - so it’s politicaly non-viable.”
Actually I read that an amendment to a bill to mandate Methanol adaptable cars was attached to a bill a few years back. It was removed by Trent Lott at the request of Japanese auto makers. Why I don’t know but man I can’t stand that guy.