A multi-phase metal hydride alloy material which is capable of reversibly absorbing and desorbing hydrogen includes a first main phase or group of phases having an ABX type crystalline structure and a second phase which has a concentration of a modifier element therein which is greater than the concentration of the modifier element in the first phase or group of phases. The modifier element functions to promote the formation of the second phase and may comprise a light rare earth element such as yttrium. The first phase or group of phases may incorporate one or more Laves phases such as a C14, C15, and/or C36 phase. Further disclosed are metal hydride batteries including the alloys.