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Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles are no longer confined to the realms of science fiction or experimental research. Models such as the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo are currently available, and advancements in fuel-cell technology are receiving substantial support from billions in federal funding for research and infrastructure. So, why do we see so few hydrogen cars on American roads today? What led to this situation?
According to Sergey Paltsev, a senior research scientist at the MIT Energy Initiative, “The answer is quite straightforward: economics.” Politicians and automakers once championed fuel cells—devices that convert hydrogen’s chemical energy into electricity for electric motors—as the future of personal transportation. However, declining battery costs coupled with an established fueling network (notably the electrical grid) have propelled battery-electric vehicles ahead.
[Related:[Related:[Related:[Related:How some automakers are still pushing ahead for a hydrogen-powered future ]
Paltsev elaborated that it’s not merely about vehicle pricing; he pointed out that low-mileage hydrogen cars in California often come with significant discounts. This highlights a crucial aspect of their overall cost structure.
The higher expenses associated with hydrogen passenger vehicles compared to their battery-electric counterparts stem from several factors: insufficient fueling infrastructure, energy conversion inefficiencies, and elevated fuel prices at stations.
Transitioning significantly towards hydrogen vehicles would necessitate extensive infrastructure development. The Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center reports only 55 public hydrogen refueling stations across the U.S., primarily located in California, compared to over 68,000 active public electric vehicle charging stations nationwide. In fact, even in California where these cars are more common, refueling can be so challenging that it has led to a July class action lawsuit against Toyota.
In another discussion with Popular Science, Gregory Keoleian from the University of Michigan expressed surprise when confirming whether automakers were still launching new hydrogen passenger models in California. While Honda ceased production on its two models back in 2021, both Toyota and Hyundai continue introducing new options within the state. His momentary hesitation underscores how focus has shifted away from passenger vehicles toward more promising applications like “medium-duty trucks and aviation.”
“Battery-electric vehicles can face challenges regarding range or refueling time,” Keoleian noted. “This is where hydrogen could play an essential role—particularly for long-haul trucking.” He further explained that sectors like rail transport or commercial trucking benefit from less concentrated fueling station requirements since they don’t need facilities on every corner.
Promising Futures for Hydrogen Passenger Vehicles
“We won’t see immediate changes next year—or likely even within five years—but there are promising pathways emerging for hydrogen cars,” Paltsev remarked. If demand for hydrogen increases significantly across other sectors such as heavy-duty transport or industry then addressing fueling infrastructure issues will become easier while creating beneficial synergies for passenger car adoption.
He also pointed out regional differences regarding economic viability—citing Japan as an example where high electricity costs make alternatives like hydrogen more appealing. Additionally, ongoing investments by various manufacturers indicate continued interest; BMW recently announced plans alongside Toyota to develop a new model featuring a BMW-designed fuel cell set to launch by 2028.
The current impracticalities surrounding these types of vehicles should not lead us into abandoning them altogether,” cautioned Paltsev while highlighting potential geopolitical disruptions affecting raw material access which could suddenly enhance economic feasibility around using this technology moving forward.This article is part of Popular Science’s Ask Us Anything series where we tackle your most intriguing questions—from everyday curiosities to extraordinary inquiries! Have something you’ve always wanted answered? “Ask us here!
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