New research makes hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles safer. May 4th, 2021 University of Georgia The hydrogen fuel cell Genesis GV80 concept SUV at the New York International Auto Show, Jacob Javits Center, New York, April 13, 2017. AP Photo/Richard Drew Hydrogen as a clean, renewable alternative to fossil fuels is part of a sustainable-energy future, and very much already here. However, lingering concerns about flammability have limited widespread use of hydrogen as a power source for electric vehicles. Previous advances have minimized the risk, but new research from the University of Georgia now puts that risk in the rearview mirror. Hydrogen vehicles can refuel much more quickly and go farther without refueling than today's electric vehicles, which use battery power. But one of the final hurdles to hydrogen power is securing a safe method for detecting hydrogen leaks.