Why has price of hydrogen fuel jumped so high? Roadshow
Q: I was wondering if you knew what’s been going on with the hydrogen market? When we bought our Toyota Mirai in August 2022, hydrogen cost just over $16 a liter. Today, it’s nearly $36, more than doubled. Do you know why that is? Any possibility that it’ll drop again in the near future?
Also, the half-dozen hydrogen stations in the greater San Jose area seem to be offline an awful lot, especially lately. Half the time we can’t even pay the high prices if we wanted to! It’s really becoming an inconvenience. Do you know of any plans for additional stations to open in San Jose? What about Morgan Hill and Gilroy?
— Jeff Wagner, San Jose
A: I’m looking to Roadshow readers who know more about the hydrogen market to weigh in on this one. Our daughter drove a hydrogen-powered car for a few years and also found the refueling very inconvenient at times.
Q: In a recent article, you posted a question from Lori McBride that she took an online course for the DMV’s written test. Could you please give me the name of the online course that she used or a good online test to practice?
— Kathleen Ledonne
A: The DMV offers a no-fail eLearning course that has seven interactive modules including quizzes, which must be completed before advancing to the next module. The course takes approximately 45 minutes and is currently available only in English. Completing the no-fail eLearning course satisfies the testing requirement.
The DMV has sample driver’s license tests on their website. Go to https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/ and search for “Sample Driver’s License Tests.”
For drivers 70 and over, check this DMV website page for more information about the renewal process: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/senior-drivers/
Q: To all who are courteous drivers, this poem is for you!
On roads that stretch and highways wide,
Where cars and trucks in unison ride,
There dwell the courteous drivers, a beacon so bright,
Their acts of kindness, a heartwarming sight.
They yield with grace, they patiently wait,
Their courtesy a shield, against road rage’s fate.
They blink their lights, a friendly sign,
A gesture of goodwill, a bond to entwine.
In merging lanes, they give you a chance,
A gentle weave, a welcoming dance.
They refrain from honks, their voices so mild,
Spreading harmony, like a soothing child.
So let us hail the courteous drivers, so true,
Their acts of kindness, shining through.
May their courtesy spread, like wildfire so bright,
And make the roads a place of pure delight.
Thank you, courteous drivers. I hope to see you next year, too!
— Daniel Chapman, Santa Clara
A: Thanks for sharing your creative accolades for courteous drivers.
Look for Gary Richards at Facebook.com/mr.roadshow or contact him at mrroadshow@bayareanewsgroup.com.