The hydrogen fuel cell is considered by many to be the dream propulsion system. Done right, hydrogen powered cars have a good range and the only emission they produce is pure water. So, why are they not all over our highways?
Truth is, there are a number of practical obstacles to the widespread adoption of hydrogen power.
First of all, hydrogen fuel cell systems are expensive. The pilot concept cars are costing anything up to a million each, far too much for commercial viability. Battery-based systems are much cheaper and are already showing up in the family car market.
Second, hydrogen-powered vehicles require a specialist infrastructure. Without a lot of hydrogen cars on the road, companies cannot afford to provide hydrogen refueling stations. Without hydrogen refueling stations… Battery-powered vehicles can plug in to the mains and companies including McDonald’s are looking into the possibility of high energy charging stations in their car parks.
Also, the hydrogen needs to be obtained somehow. Splitting water to make hydrogen and oxygen requires a lot of electricity. Unless all of that electricity is gained from renewable resources, then the emissions problem is just being moved around. This is, of course, also a problem with battery powered cars but the inefficiency of creating the hydrogen means more electricity is needed than to charge your battery.
In short, hydrogen fuel cells are a great idea but less practical in the short term than battery power, and possibly even in the long term. They may never be a viable alternative.Still bored? Click to continue: UK’s first open access hydrogen refueling station opens
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