Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Contact: Mark Sulzbach, 651-296-7768 Toll-free: 1-800-657-3864 Saint Paul, Minn. - A hydrogen fuel cell-powered Workman® utility vehicle developed by The Toro Company of Bloomington, Minn., will be on display at this year's Eco Experience at the Minnesota State Fair. The 10-foot long utility vehicle is one of three being developed by Toro for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation for use at Niagara Falls State Park, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). Hydrogen fuel cells use a chemical reaction to create electricity. Unlike a gasoline engine, a hydrogen fuel cell generates no pollution, emitting only a tiny amount of water vapor. The vehicle will eventually support a New York Executive Order to adopt "green and clean" state buildings and vehicles. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority is contributing $380,025 toward the project. Toro is committed to developing new technologies in alternative fuel sources that improve the way customers care for their outdoor environments. "Toro is very excited to partner with the state of New York on its initiative to adopt clean-energy technologies," said Dana Lonn, director of Toro's Center for Advanced Turf Technology. "This project is a logical extension of our strategy and ongoing innovation, and provides us with an opportunity to gain greater operational experience in hydrogen fuel cells." It is expected that the hydrogen fuel cell utility vehicles will be used to shuttle workers and grounds equipment, drag infields, haul turf materials, and assist with refuse and snow removal. The Eco Experience will exhibit several other earth-friendly vehicles including an electric car and several bio-fuel powered vehicles. About the Eco Experience at the Minnesota State Fair The Eco Experience, presented by the Minnesota State Fair and the MPCA, is a 25,000-square-foot exhibit devoted entirely to educating visitors on ways to lessen their environmental footprint. Complete with lush rain gardens, a cutting-edge eco home, and displays on renewable energy, organic products and services, the Eco Experience is the one place to stop and learn about adopting a "greener" lifestyle. Bring your family, bring a friend and get your green on! The Eco Experience is located in the Progress Center building at the corner of Cosgrove Street and Randall Avenue on the State Fairgrounds. The Minnesota State Fair runs Thursday, Aug. 23 through Labor Day, Sept. 3, 2007. Park and ride information is available online at www.mnstatefair.org.