The idea of a hybrid electric vehicle was developed in the early 20th century. It was not however, until the last decade, that intense social pressure to reduce air pollution led to strict environmental regulations being imposed that HEV's were seen as the best near term economic solution to our air quality problems attributable to vehicles. Regulations Drive Timing Vehicle fuel efficiency and emission standards are regulated in Canada, the United States and Europe. Tougher emission standards are coming into effect in 2004 and fuel type restrictions for some airports and the urban core of some cities are beginning to appear. President Bush recently announced new tax incentives for HEV development.
Hybrids improve efficiency of any primary drive system including fuel cells.