I think that the case for the electric car goes far beyond politics. We need to switch to something other than oil in the next few decades (some would argue as fast as possible, oil companies would say we have until 2025 to start worrying), and I think electric is the best option. On top of that, the current gas prices, and the costs associated with internal combustion engines in the first place, are an unreasonable burden on the consumer. If we invested even a fraction of the money we have on hydrogen into batteries, we could have viable, market ready cars on the road, and John Q Taxpayer wouldn't have to deal with any more costs than he does now. Once good batteries are developed by government research funds, those technologies would take care of themselves. And regardless of your views on global warming (I'm not so convinced either way personally), the burning of oil is a serious health hazard. Our cities are choked with smog, the air we breathe causes disease, and the water we drink is often contaminated. Also, our national security would be greatly enhanced by oil independence. We often think of the middle east, but what if Russia wanted to take advantage of us? Or Venezuela? They have the power.
