With the sale of new petrol and diesel cars coming to an end in 2030, it's no surprise electric car sales are increasing. However, while electricity is being touted as the alternative, another fuel source is receiving billions in investment – Hydrogen.
Carmakers have been flexing their hydrogen fuel cell technology over the past few years. Most notably, Hyundai. But, progress has been slow in this area, although that's set to change in the coming years.
Last August, the Government released the UK Hydrogen Strategy report. This information looked at how this fuel source could provide an effective way to reduce carbon emissions. It's also backing its use more widely with a grant awarded to the Hydrogen for Transport Programme.
But is hydrogen a viable alternative for car manufacturers, and is there a future for this fuel? Find out more below…
How do hydrogen cars work?
Hydrogen cars have a hydrogen tank that feeds a fuel cell. The hydrogen gas and oxygen mix produce an electrochemical reaction that powers an electric motor. It shares similar features with both petrol and electric cars – a fuel tank for the Hydrogen and an electric motor to power it.
This unique combination is where the magic happens. In short, there are no exhaust emissions. There are only two by-products of this chemical reaction – water and heat.
But are hydrogen cars better than electric?
There's a lot of conversation surrounding this question. For many, it's a case of weighing up the pros and cons such as:
- Hydrogen cars are suggested to have a larger range than electric cars due to densely packed energy storage.
- Hydrogen refuelling is similar to filling up at the petrol station. In comparison, electric cars have a longer charge time depending on the charge point.
- Currently, hydrogen cars are expensive to buy (upwards of £54,000). These prices may start to come down as more models enter the market.
- Hydrogen cars cost more to refuel. For example, it's estimated the Toyota Mirai costs around £75 for a full tank. A home charge for your electric car is around £8.
- Electric charging points are popping up in more locations across the UK. But unfortunately, the same can't be said for hydrogen fuelling options as yet.
- Both electric and hydrogen-powered cars use energy-intensive processes indirectly. So, until this changes with the increase in energy-efficient extraction methods, each still has a carbon footprint.
Are hydrogen cars better for the environment?
Studies suggest that using hydrogen fuel over other sources decreases CO2 emissions considerably. However, it's not just the direct emissions that need to be taken into account.
Hydrogen is one of the most abundant elements in the world. But it's not available in its purest form. This means it has to be produced with other things such as water or gas. Some people argue that because the process is energy-intensive, this contradicts its eco-credentials. Its counterpart, electric, also uses energy-intensive extraction methods for Lithium-Ion battery production.
Both have their pros and cons. To compare hydrogen like-for-like with petrol or diesel – yes it is cleaner for the environment.
How many hydrogen cars are on the road?
At present, there are only two hydrogen-powered car models available to purchase – the Hyundai NEXO and Toyota Mirai. Although you probably won't have seen these models around much, as the Government estimates there are only about 300 on the road.
This number will ultimately increase in the coming years. Companies such as Bosch have announced investment injections into developing this fuel source. Its intention also sets out a move into hydrogen-powered lorries to reduce emissions in the logistics sector.
Will hydrogen cars replace electric cars?
It's not likely. The bigger picture with these two fuel types is the potential for a hydrogen-electric hybrid. Much like current hybrids on the market, Hydrogen would replace the petrol or diesel element to ensure the cleanest fuel possible.
Is Hydrogen dangerous?
Hydrogen is flammable, but so is the fuel you carry around in your car every day. Similar to the onboard systems you see in modern cars, manufacturers have developed systems to keep drivers safe. So, there's nothing additional to worry about using this fuel.
Is Hydrogen the future?
It's challenging to predict the future, as there will be many innovations as we approach the 2030 deadline. However, the use of hydrogen as a fuel source won't be swept under the carpet.
The benefits of using hydrogen are encouraging, and more car manufacturers see the potential. Ford, Nissan and BMW, among others, are experimenting with hydrogen car development. BMW is also trailing a new model, the iX5 Hydrogen, although this will only be available in limited numbers.
While hydrogen is a top contender for fuelling future car models, there are other challenges behind the scenes, including infrastructure. For example, the UK's rollout of electric charging points hasn't been the fastest. Then there's consideration of how the grid might handle everyone plugging their car in at home.
The same issues arise with hydrogen fuel. Costs for changing infrastructure and supplying this fuel are top concerns. However, there could be an opportunity for hydrogen to be produced on-site rather than transported around. Again, the technology and costs associated would be high.
There are several questions and conversations surrounding hydrogen as a cleaner fuel source for the future. While it's difficult to know whether it will take off in the short term, it is seeing encouraging growth.
We're likely to hear more as the Hydrogen for Transport Programme moves forward and more cars make their way into the market.
