High gas prices are fueling more than anger this summer driving season-they're also powering alternatives.

As Joel Runck explains, one Northlander has remedied the 'pain at the pump' with water.

At first glance it looks like an ordinary SUV.

But pop the hood and a closer look reveals more to this engine than meets the eye.

Meet J. Plante, he builds fuel cells that turn combustion-powered engines into hydrogen hybrids.

"You're getting enough hydrogen to supplement your gas so that you can actually turn your gas down as opposed to letting the computer control your gas," Plante said.

Plante's career consisted of working in the computer trade until he got fed-up with high gas prices about two years ago.

Operating out of his garage, J's hobby quickly turned into a full-time job and now he say's he's sold hundreds of the fuel cell kits in Duluth and across the U-S and world.

Other than installation Plante says you leave your engine the way it is and let the hydrogen do the rest.

"It goes down into your burn chamber right with your gas and ignites faster it's more powerful," Plante said.

About 2-months ago, J. installed two hydrogen fuel cells into his S-U-V and says he's seen about a 25 percent increase in miles per gallon.

"The more cells you have in there making hydrogen, the better off you are," said Plante.

For maximum efficiency, Plante recommends installing one fuel cell per cylinder.

J. says hydrogen is propelled to the engine after distilled water interacts with a catalyst in the cells.

But how much does all this cost?

"Six cells with the whole kit, it costs 314 dollars and 95 cents," said Plante.

J. says that's a small price for a big savings.

"I say to the oil companies there's better ways of doing things and this is one of them," said Plante.

During the winter, J. says the distilled water in the fuel cells needs to be substituted with windshield wiper antifreeze.

Even with this move, Plante says there's no drop in fuel efficiency.

For more information on the Hydrogen Auto Assist, visit:
www.hydrogenautoassist.com