A s battery manufacturers race to produce more efficient lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, some scientists are looking to make the cars themselves a power source. Once perfected, scientists hope the substance will replace standard car bodies, making vehicles up to 15 percent lighter and significantly extending the range of electric vehicles. The strong yet lightweight substance charges much like a battery, storing energy and releasing it when necessary. [2]

Researchers have patented a mixture of carbon fiber and polymer that can store and discharge electricity, meaning that eventually the body of your car could also be running its engine. First, the material could replace lithium-ion batteries as a source of energy storage for plug-in cars, consumer electronics, the electrical grid and more. With lithium supplies dwindling and getting pricey, it could be the next best option sooner than later. [1]