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General Motors (NYSE: GM), believe it or not, is working toward alternative propulsion systems as energy prices continue to be seen at new highs (while still showing wild volatility), and the electric Volt is just one of its efforts. What will power the electric vehicles of the future? That's a billion-dollar question, since batteries are probably the largest barrier to really commercializing the fully electric vehicle -- from any manufacturer.

GM, according to sources this week, wants its fuel cell technology -- a leading contender for high-energy batteries -- to be commercialized as soon as possible. If fuel cells could be refined even further than where they are today, the economic and practical viability of totally electric cars could be seen soon. So far, talk like that has been full of hot air. But then again, automakers see pent-up demand for this technology as gas prices go absolutely nuts. Oil stands right at $100 a barrel right now. You make the call.

If GM does not get there first, you can bet the competition will -- and will feed the insatiable consumer demand that lies waiting in the proverbial wings. The good news here is that innovation and speed will happen as the race to be first in this "fuel cell" space becomes more heated. As history has shown, in the end, the winner will be the consumer, much to the chagrin of oil producers.

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