Hydrogen Powered Cars: Everything to Know

Everything you need to know about how hydrogen cars work, how much they cost, and what their future is looking like.

What are hydrogen fuel cell cars?

Hydrogen fuel cell cars, or fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), are electric cars that are powered by hydrogen gas (H₂). Similarly to electric cars, hydrogen cars are much more environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient than gas-powered cars. However, unlike electric cars, they only emit water vapor! Hydrogen cars can also be fueled at “hydrogen stations” that are very similar to the trusty gas stations that we’re all familiar with. You simply pull up to the pump and wait for about 5 minutes for your car to fill. One full tank of hydrogen can last about 300 miles! 

How do hydrogen fuel cells work?

The simple definition is that hydrogen-powered cars store hydrogen gas (H₂) in large tanks located at the back of the vehicle, often under the back seats. The energy stored in the hydrogen gas is then converted into electricity when it combines with oxygen (O₂). 

For a more detailed explanation, we’re going to have to dive into a bit of chemistry. As depicted in the image above, hydrogen is injected into the anode (the positive side of the cell), and oxygen, coming from the air, enters the cathode (the negative side of the cell). Then, the hydrogen atoms (H) split into protons (H⁺) and electrons (e^-). Remember that protons are positively charged and electrons are negatively charged. In between the cathode and the anode, there’s a membrane that only allows protons (H⁺) to pass through. Since only the protons can pass through the membrane, the electrons (e^-) are forced onto a different path. The flow of the electrons then generates electricity (and heat, of course). Finally, the protons and electrons both reach the cathode side of the cell where they combine with the oxygen to form water molecules (H₂O). 

Are hydrogen fuel cell cars safe?

Hydrogen fuel cars are as safe as any other vehicle. The hydrogen-storing tanks are designed to survive any crashes, no matter the speed. No injuries or deaths have been reported since hydrogen cars have been on the market. So, while using hydrogen to fuel cars is a relatively new concept, hydrogen has been used as an energy carrier for decades. Hydrogen fuel is no more dangerous than any other fuel used to power cars. 

How many hydrogen-fueled cars are there?

Since 2015, there have been three hydrogen cars on the market: the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell, the Hyundai Nexo SUV, and the Toyota Mirai. However, the Honda Clarity has been discontinued and fewer than 1,500 Nexo SUVs have been sold so far. Toyota has had a little more success, having sold a little less than 11,000 Mirai sedans. These three cars have also only been available in California where the only hydrogen fuel stations are located. However, Honda is planning to introduce a hydrogen-powered CR-V, and other companies, such as GM, plan on introducing their own hydrogen-powered cars and trucks. 

How much does hydrogen cost?

Recently, California’s main hydrogen fuel retailer, True Zero, has increased their price to $36/kg. The company stated that this price increase is due to “continued cost pressure on the hydrogen supply chain” and “low carbon credit values compared to historical levels”. This is most likely because the infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles is still extremely new and not at all widespread.

Pros and cons of hydrogen-powered cars:

Pros:

1. Quiet and similar to driving electric vehicles
2. No carbon emissions (only emit water vapor)
3. Takes less time to charge than EVs
4. Safe and reliable
5. Better mileage than gas and electric cars

Cons:

1. Expensive!!
2. Low availability of fuel stations
3. ⅔ of hydrogen is made from fossil gas