We developed a completely new electrode architecture for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) with a low platinum loading. It consists of a network of oriented platinum nanotubes without any electron conducting support. The electrochemical characterisations carried out in half-cell point out the percolation of platinum over the entire length of the nanotubes as well as the presence of an electrical contact between the nanotubes and the surface of the electrode. Fuel cell tests have also been carried out with electrodes with an area of 5 cm(2). (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.