On the road to a hydrogen economy

Just a few years ago, the idea that hydrogen would power the 21st century was restricted to a few environmental visionaries. Today, shares in companies researching fuel cells and hydrogen storage have gone through the roof, while Ford, GM, Toyota and DaimlerChrysler are investing billions and forging hydrogen alliances with Shell, BP and Exxon. Yet significant obstacles remain - in storing hydrogen, reducing environmental impacts during its manufacture, and developing refuelling infrastructure. The pace of the transition will depend on the willingness of governments to support it.