The European Commission (EC) has said that it wants to encourage and speed up the introduction of hydrogen-fuelled cars.

Cars running on hydrogen fuel emit no harmful emissions, but the technology is still at an early stage.

Platinum is often used as a catalyst in hydrogen fuel cells, promoting the reaction between oxygen and the hydrogen fuel that creates power.

As a first step, the commission has asked for the views of industry and the general public on planned new rules to ensure the safe operation of hydrogen powered vehicles.

It has described this step as "crucial", since hydrogen is a highly flammable substance.

Through the consultation, it hopes to identify whether rules would impose any undue burden on manufacturers or suppliers compared to the benefits in terms of safe operation of the vehicles.

"Hydrogen propulsion will reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and improve air quality in Europe," said commission vice-president, Günter Verheugen.

"The proposed measures will facilitate the market introduction of such vehicles, thus, could entail a boost for Europe's competitiveness and a significant improvement to the environment."

The commission has already produced a preliminary draft proposal for a regulation on hydrogen powered motor vehicles.

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