Researchers at UCLA have achieved a significant breakthrough in extending the lifespan of hydrogen fuel cells, specifically targeting heavy-duty vehicles like long-haul trucks. Led by Professor Yu Huang, the team developed a novel catalyst design that can push the projected fuel cell catalyst lifespans to 200,000 hours, nearly seven times the U.S. Department of Energy's target for 2050. The research, published in Nature Nanotechnology, paves the way for the widespread adoption of fuel cell technology in heavy-duty applications, which are responsible for a significant portion of greenhouse gas automobile emissions. The fuel cells with the new catalyst design are lighter than batteries, requiring less energy to power heavy vehicles. The design shields platinum from degradation, ensuring long-term stability and high catalytic activity essential for fuel cell performance. The new catalyst exhibited minimal power loss after an accelerated stress test, projecting lifetimes exceeding 200,000 hours. This breakthrough not only enhances the durability of fuel cells but also contributes to reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency in the transportation sector, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles. The UCLA team's innovation is a crucial step towards sustainable long-haul trucking and cleaner heavy-duty transportation, offering a promising alternative to conventional fossil fuel-powered vehicles.