  We consider several new classes of viable vector field alternatives to the
inflaton and quintessence scalar fields. Spatial vector fields are shown to be
compatible with the cosmological anisotropy bounds if only slightly displaced
from the potential minimum while dominant, or if driving an anisotropic
expansion with nearly vanishing quadropole today. The Bianchi I model with a
spatial field and an isotropic fluid is studied as a dynamical system, and
several types of scaling solutions are found. On the other hand, time-like
fields are automatically compatible with large-scale isotropy. We show that
they can be dynamically important if non-minimal gravity couplings are taken
into account. As an example, we reconstruct a vector-Gauss-Bonnet model which
generates the concordance model acceleration at late times and supports an
inflationary epoch at high curvatures. The evolution of vortical perturbations
is considered.
