For some reason many think
For some reason many think all I write about are auto sector stocks. Fact is, I do write many auto technology articles considering I'm also an engineer. Regarding electrification, I do not doubt that is the direction, and that will ultimately lead to hydrogen and fuel cells. The challenge centers on battery technology which at present does not have the energy density to meet our daily needs at this time; meaning, still not ready for prime time at a cost that the masses can afford.
I also know that the vast majority of propulsion technologies going into 2017 and 2025 will still be based on the IC engine. Now, it's either give everyone a raise so they can afford fully electrified cars, or make IC engines cleaner and ready to use more abundant fuels like nat-gas.
Granted, the Bakken oil find will take the load off of oil imports, but part of that find also includes natural gas. Point: an abundant fuel source like this will not be wasted, and it will be cost competitive.
Flex fuel as it stands today is dependent on the food chain as in corn; bad idea by any stretch. Use of cellulosics would be better, but nat-gas is still cheaper by any stretch because it is more abundant and needs less processing.
For sure, heavy trucks are heading into nat-gas as I write; as are many commercial vehicles. However, large cars and SUVs would benefit as well from this cheaper fuel. If you truly want Flex fuel, then nat-gas is still the cheaper choice.
And regarding what Toyota knows, I suggest that they were behind GM in hydrogen and fuel cells until recently. Point: I saw them playing catch up until I saw their reports at CAR MBS2011. The company is leading, though, with the Prius, but even that has an IC engine. But do not get too complacent with full or even partial electrification, as the IC engine still has another trick up its sleeve with split-cycle and air hybrid technology.