Scientists at the University of Central Florida have found a method of using gold or palladium instead of the more costly platinum or iridium in a hydrogen fuel cell.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/03/120315110407.htm

Layering the gold with tungsten and other inexpensive materials appears to be a basic research step toward better, cheaper fuel cells and electric cars.

Better fuel cells, better batteries; the road ahead may have more electric vehicles if concentrated wealth doesn't simply buy up and repress patents or development.