The Chevrolet Sequel is not just a demonstration of hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion system. The Sequel is also a showcase for advanced technologies such as steering- and brake-by-wire. It's a peek into the next decade when new vehicles will put more faith into computers and rely less on petroleum.

General Motors recently offered a few journalists-and even Red Hot Chili Pepper's front man Anthony Kiedis-a chance to test drive the Sequel over a pre-determined - and quite secure - route on Camp Pendleton near San Diego, California. There were no opportunities for high-speed bursts, sharp turns or panic stops. Just as the hydrogen program is still in its infancy-at least what can be seen outside the laboratory-GM is allowing journalists only baby steps behind the wheel. Sometimes those are the most memorable.

The Sequel obviously wasn't in production trim. This Sequel is a result of a management's decision about three years ago to move beyond the concept stage and build a drivable hydrogen test vehicle that would appeal to a popular consumer segment. Officials freely admit they're working on next generation equipment and even showed off a model of a fully capable fuel-cell pack that was about the size of a 4-cylinder engine. Development continues on even more powerful, lighter and more efficient fuel cells as well as batteries and storage solutions. The big question: when will management give the go-ahead to build a production vehicle?

Continue reading about the GM Sequel after the jump.