--there aren't going to be hydrogen "breakthroughs" in this universe. The principles of physics apply, even to the hydrogen-oxygen bond---
I heard that from a trusted scientist and business partner a decade ago. Since then numerous relevant patents have been awarded and various major auto manufacturers have thrown big money into the arena.
One thing's for sure, with folks being incentivized to throw their own money behind such endeavors (via prize pursuits), if it's all just a pipe dream like you claim, then taxpayers won't lose a dime. Is that not a healthy paradigm shift worth supporting regardless?
Your tax dollars at work:
http://www.srs.gov