Hydrogen is seen as having a lot of potential as a fuel for vehicle propulsion systems. It is a very clean energy source and is the most abundant element in the universe. For this reason, some carmakers have been developing propulsion systems which use hydrogen in various forms.

Currently, the gas is used in a fuel cell which has a chemical reaction that generates electricity that can then be stored and used to power electric motors. Companies like Toyota, Honda and Hyundai have already commercialised fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) for some years now, selling them in certain markets.

Hydrogen can also be used in other forms and Toyota has been carrying out R&D into liquid hydrogen as a fuel. It is still in early stages but is using motorsport as a development laboratory. In the high-pressured world of competition, extreme conditions are created and provide engineers with useful data for development work.