Hyundai drives a hydrogen-powered SUV into California

Hydrogen fuel cells have been the next-decade solution for the auto industries' pollution problems for three decades and change. With their ability to make electricity from hydrogen with no byproduct but water vapor, most automakers have built prototype vehicles, and a few have offered limited sales — albeit at high prices and with tightly controlled markets.

At the Los Angeles Auto Show, Hyundai revealed its foray into the hydrogen market, unveiling a fuel-cell powered Tucson that it will lease to Californians starting early next year. The hook: For $2,999 down and $499 a month, Hyundai will offer a car with the fuel supplied for free.