Synthesis gas might be on the fast track after all. The experimental alternative fuel made from spent coal, got a big boost with the announcement of a successful test using “syngas” as fuel in a GM V-8 engine generator.

The announcement was made by Synthesis Energy Systems, a leader in coal gasification strategies, and Quantum Fuel Systems, a leader in hydrogen engineering. The two companies worked together to produce stabilized power in a General Motors 8.1 liter V-8 block, with the result being repeated success.

The next step is to widen the success of synthetic gasoline, to a full engine and a full vehicle. The companies will continue to cooperate in that regard. Perhaps soon, syngas will be a viable alternative to petroleum.