[ledfoot]

Yes, there is always the problem of range with battery power. Isn't it possible though that by infusing hybrids into a broad spectrum of new vehicles, we could become more efficient with what we have and not really need to eliminate petroleum fuels?

I have a feeling that a large portion of the consumer market my be a little leary about strapping a small hydrogen bomb (fuel cell) to their cars when the time comes when that technology is avaliable, too.

[Arrowhead1952]

Sort of like the electric forklifts we have used for years. They cannot be used for more than 8 hours without the batteries running low and needing recharging.

[fireforeffect]

Fuel cells are not "hydrogen bombs". Their fuel tanks may be hydrogen bombs, but only if they use hydrogen for fuel. Actually, the hydrogen fuel tanks themselves are very safe, it is leaks from the hydrogen fuel lines that are the problem.

Most fuel cells in use today are fossil fuel powered. Only NASA and eu use hydrogen. most common application is as a quiet, standby power supply fueled by natural gas (home generator).

The problem with high efficiency fuel cells is that the media in the cell is highly corrosive/toxic. In a vehicle accident the cracked cell could kill/poison people and pets. It is also very hot (boiling oil anyone?).

[Chemist_Geek]

Yes, there is always the problem of range with battery power. Isn't it possible though that by infusing hybrids into a broad spectrum of new vehicles, we could become more efficient with what we have and not really need to eliminate petroleum fuels?

Unfortunately, no. The Luddites will spread Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt against hybrids amongst the buying public. For example, I'm sure you've heard the rumor that the battery pack costs $10,000 to replace and will only last 100,000 miles. Neither is true; and yet, that's enough for a lot of people to eschew a hybrid powerplant vehicle.

The other thing is contempt and derision against the "skateboard deathtraps." Many threads here on FR discussing hybrid powerplant vehicles include such invective.

I have a feeling that a large portion of the consumer market my be a little leary about strapping a small hydrogen bomb (fuel cell) to their cars when the time comes when that technology is avaliable, too.

Again, the FUD comes out with H₂ fuel and fuel cells. When you write "hydrogen bomb", which do you mean:

This, or

This?

The fact of the matter is that H₂ is as safe as, if not safer than, gasoline, as a fuel; it is merely unfamiliarity which allows FUD to take root.