This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through these links. See our full disclosure here.
The internal combustion engine (ICE) has been under fire for some time now, and more efficient powertrains are slowly making headway. Hydrogen-powered vehicles and electric vehicles (EV) aren’t without their own uphill battles. Which one is the better option for the environmentally-focused driver, or does it even matter?
Benefits of Hydrogen-Powered Vehicles
- Zero Emissions: Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles (FCV) produce only water (and some heat), making them environmentally friendly, as long as the hydrogen is produced sustainably. Per the Department of Energy, some hydrogen production options include solar, wind, and nuclear power.
- Fast Refueling: Refueling a hydrogen vehicle is similar in speed to refueling a gasoline car. It only takes a few minutes.
- Longer Range: Hydrogen vehicles offer longer ranges compared to most electric vehicles, making them more suitable for long-distance travel without frequent refueling.
- Suitability for Heavy Vehicles: Hydrogen is under serious consideration to replace heavy-duty vehicles, like semi-trucks and buses, where electric powertrains may struggle. For example, Daimler plans to launch a hydrogen fuel-cell-powered semi-truck in Germany this year.
To date, only three hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles have hit the market: Honda Clarity (now discontinued), Hyundai Nexo, and Toyota Mirai. Honda plans to introduce a hydrogen fuel-cell CR-V this year. Only around 17,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles are on the road, and they’re all in California.
Benefits of Electric Vehicles
- Zero Emissions: Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions when charged using renewable energy sources. Much like FCVs, renewable energy resources include solar, wind, and nuclear power.
- Lower Operating Costs: EVs have fewer moving parts compared to vehicles equipped with an ICE, leading to lower maintenance costs over time.
- Energy Efficiency: Electric motors are highly efficient, up to 96%, leading to lower energy consumption compared to ICEs, which come in at 40% efficiency.
- Home Charging Convenience: EV owners can charge their vehicles at home using a standard electrical outlet or dedicated charging station.
Despite both hydrogen-powered and electric vehicles serving as eco-friendly options, they both face one serious problem: available infrastructure. Until fuel and charging options become more widely available, hydrogen and electric power remain limited by range and to specific types of vehicles. As a result, ICEs won’t be riding off into the sunset anytime soon.
