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Newswise — A transition to hydrogen as a major fuel in the next 50 years could fundamentally transform the U.S. energy system, according to the National Research Council, and a surprise discovery at New Mexico State University may speed that transformation.

David Johnson was a doctoral candidate in 2007 working on lab experiments for his dissertation in molecular biology at NMSU when he unexpectedly identified a biopolymer that could result in safer hydrogen storage.

Johnson, who now has his doctorate and is working at the NMSU Institute for Energy and Environment, was working on a National Science Foundation-funded grant to find a unique hydrogen-producing microbial community when he noticed some unusual bubbles forming in the reactor.

The bright white bubbles were forming a biopolymer that NMSU biology researcher and professor Geoffrey Smith didn’t recognize.

This biopolymer was also capturing and storing hydrogen as the gas was being produced. With a tight molecular...

NAGOYA -- Since its first-generation Prius debuted in December 1997 with the slogan: "just in time for the 21st century," Toyota Motor has been a pioneer in hybrid vehicles.

Back then, hybrid cars were seen as a marginal segment in the auto industry, yet they quickly caught on with consumers and other carmakers have followed Toyota's lead.



Company Chairman Takeshi Uchiyamada was the man behind the development of the first-generation Prius. He recently spoke to The Nikkei about the various challenges encountered during development of the world's first mass market hybrid car.

After joining Toyota in 1969, Uchiyamada spent many years testing various methods of resolving car vibration and noise issues. His life took a dramatic turn...

So far about 10 states charge an EV annual fee for road usage. Only one state (Idaho) apparently hits hybrids/PHEV with fees. Sounds like Washington considering a new PHEV fee (PiP is free, looks like!). NH has a proposal for a road usage fee for all vehicles over 20 MPG, prorated Based on MPG (this is better than taxing hybrids per se). WI has been considering.

Green Car Congress: 11 states assessing fees on EV owners in lieu of traditional fuel taxes