IRVINE, Calif. — Lack of an infrastructure has been the real bugaboo in the transition from gas to zero-emissions hydrogen vehicles. But a California company announced on Monday that it has taken a step forward in rectifying that problem by supplying General Motors with three transportable hydrogen refueling stations that will be used at such venues as public ride-and-drive events.

"Our transportable hydrogen refueling stations are designed to support our customers as they advance their hydrogen fuel cell vehicle initiatives and are helping to establish the foundation of a hydrogen refueling network," said Alan Niedzwiecki, president and CEO of Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies. He added that the rolling stations "translate directly into a greater vehicle driving range for hydrogen-fueled vehicles."

The National Hydrogen Association says that, as of May 22, 2007, there are only 79 stations in North America in its hydrogen fueling station database. Many of these stations are located at automotive proving grounds and the tech centers of foreign and domestic automakers, according to a list of worldwide hydrogen fueling stations.

General Motors has been testing such fuel-cell vehicles as the Chevrolet Sequel, which uses Quantum's integrated hydrogen storage system.

What this means to you: The best minds are getting very creative when it comes to getting hydrogen to the customer.