Abstract: An electrolysis unit for producing hydrogen and oxygen gases is formed by the cooling system of an internal combustion engine wherein the engine casing forms one of the electrodes and produces one of the hydrogen and oxygen gases and the radiator forms the other of the electrodes and produces the other of the gases. The electrolyte used in the electrolysis unit includes a hydride for absorbing and storing hydrogen produced by the electrolysis process and for releasing hydrogen when thermally activated. An array of solar cells is integrated into the body panels of the vehicle wherein the engine is located and is connected to the engine and radiator for supplying current to the electrolysis unit for producing the hydrogen and oxygen gases.