Swiss designers are at the forefront of the development of hydrogen-powered cars. The Federal Institute of Technology Zurich has worked with commercial and academic partners to create the PAC Car, powered by a fuel cell system using as little fuel as possible. PAC Car II set a new world record in the 2005 Shell Eco-Marathon, achieving 5385 km (3346 miles) with the hydrogen equivalent of one litre (just over one quart) of petrol (gasoline).

The success of the car lies not only in its fuel cell, but also in its materials and aerodynamics. It is hoped that some of the discoveries made in the development of this pioneering vehicle will eventually be used in the production of normal passenger cars.