[powderhorn]

My guess is when you burn coal to run hydrogen-powered autos you are utilizing 20% of the energy captured in coal.

No. You burn hydrogen to run hydrogen-powered autos. It mixes with oxygen (H20), and produces water as a byproduct.

The biggest problem won't be getting these vehicles by the Saudies, the problem will be getting these vehicles past the American oil companies. They'll block any real transition until they find a way to capture the profits from the new industry.

[RandallFlagg]

BINGO!! You nailed it!
I say we make these at home and don't tell anyone about it until at least 35% of drivers are driving them. By then it'll be too late. -I know, I'm dreaming.

[dennisw]

And what do you burn to make the hydrogen? In the UK you would burn coal as one source.

[js1138]

They'll block any real transition until they find a way to capture the profits from the new industry.

And why wouldn't they profit. Who else has the capital, the engineers, the distribution network? Why dis they start calling themselves energy companies some years back?