Can hydrogen really compete?

The competition between hydrogen and electric vehicles is influenced by several factors, including infrastructure availability, energy efficiency, environmental impact, energy storage capabilities, vehicle range, and industry support. As technology continues to evolve, it's essential to consider these factors while assessing the competitiveness of hydrogen and electric vehicles in specific contexts and regions. 

Infrastructure

One of the main challenges for hydrogen vehicles is the limited availability of refueling infrastructure. Building a comprehensive network of hydrogen refueling stations requires significant investment and coordination. In contrast, electric vehicles can leverage existing electrical infrastructure, including charging stations at homes, workplaces, and public locations, which are more prevalent and accessible.

Energy Efficiency

Electric vehicles (EVs) have demonstrated higher energy efficiency compared to hydrogen vehicles. This can be attributed to the inherent losses associated with converting energy between different forms. In the case of EVs, the process of converting electrical energy stored in batteries into mechanical energy to power the vehicle's electric motor is highly efficient. Electric motors can achieve conversion efficiencies above 90%, resulting in minimal energy loss during operation.

On the other hand, hydrogen vehicles rely on the production of hydrogen through electrolysis, where electrical energy is used to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. This process incurs energy losses due to the inefficiencies of electrolysis, typically ranging from 70% to 80%. Subsequently, the hydrogen produced needs to be stored and transported to refueling stations, incurring additional energy losses along the supply chain. When the stored hydrogen is used in a fuel cell vehicle, it undergoes electrochemical reactions to produce electricity, which then powers the vehicle's electric motor. However, this conversion process from hydrogen to electricity in a fuel cell has its own set of losses, resulting in further energy inefficiencies.

Overall, the multiple energy conversion steps involved in the production and utilization of hydrogen introduce additional energy losses compared to the direct utilization of electricity in EVs. While improvements in hydrogen production methods and fuel cell technology may help mitigate some of these losses, the overall energy efficiency of hydrogen vehicles remains lower compared to electric vehicles. However, it is worth noting that the energy efficiency comparison may vary depending on specific technologies, infrastructure, and operational conditions.

Environmental Impact

Both hydrogen and electric vehicles can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, depending on the energy sources used for their production and operation. Electric vehicles powered by renewable energy have zero tailpipe emissions. Hydrogen vehicles produce water vapor as their only emission, but the source of hydrogen production is crucial. If hydrogen is produced from renewable sources through electrolysis, it can be considered a clean fuel option.

Storage

Energy storage is a critical aspect of vehicle technologies. Electric vehicles use rechargeable batteries that have been advancing in terms of energy density and cost reduction. Battery technology has seen significant improvements in recent years. On the other hand, hydrogen vehicles use fuel cells, which require hydrogen storage and may face challenges related to storage capacity, weight, and cost.

Vehicle Range

Hydrogen vehicles typically have longer driving ranges compared to electric vehicles. Fuel cell vehicles can provide similar driving ranges to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, offering faster refueling times compared to recharging an electric vehicle's battery. However, advancements in battery technology are continually improving electric vehicle ranges, and rapid charging infrastructure is being expanded to address range anxiety concerns.

Industry Support and Innovation

Both hydrogen and electric vehicles have received substantial support from governments, automotive manufacturers, and energy companies. The level of investment and innovation in each technology can influence their competitiveness and market adoption.