The transportation industry is undergoing a revolutionary transformation. The phase-out of fossil fuels and the search for environmentally friendly alternatives are among the hottest topics today. While battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are rapidly gaining market share, many experts still see great potential in hydrogen-powered cars (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles, FCEVs). The key question is: will hydrogen remain a viable alternative, or will pure electric cars completely dominate the market?
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the current state of hydrogen propulsion, its advantages and disadvantages, compare it with electric vehicles, highlight key industry players, and explore future trends.
What is hydrogen propulsion?
In hydrogen-powered cars, energy is not stored in a battery but in high-pressure tanks in the form of compressed hydrogen. This hydrogen is converted into electricity by a fuel cell, which drives the electric motor.
Key components:
- Hydrogen tank: stores the gas at 350-700 bar pressure
- Fuel cell: generates electricity through a reaction between hydrogen and oxygen
- Electric motor: powers the vehicle
- Exhaust: emits only pure water vapor
A key difference compared to BEVs is that in FCEVs, electricity is generated onboard the vehicle, whereas in BEVs, stored battery power is used.
Historical overview
The concept of hydrogen propulsion is not new—experiments were already underway in the 1960s, primarily for military and space applications. The first roadworthy prototypes appeared in the 1990s, but mass production began only in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
Well-known models:
- Toyota Mirai – available since 2014, now in its second generation
- Hyundai Nexo – available since 2018
- Honda Clarity Fuel Cell – produced from 2016 to 2021
FCEV technology is now mature, with reliable cars offering competitive performance, but widespread adoption still faces significant challenges.
Advantages
Fast refueling
Hydrogen refueling takes only 3-5 minutes, a major advantage over the several-hour charging time of battery EVs. The experience is also similar to refueling conventional internal combustion vehicles, making it more familiar to users.
Long range
FCEVs typically offer a range of 500-700 km, often exceeding the range of comparable BEVs.
Lower weight
Hydrogen vehicles are generally lighter than BEVs equipped with large battery packs, resulting in better handling and a more dynamic driving experience.
Cold-weather performance
FCEVs are less affected by cold temperatures, as the fuel cell generates heat during operation, which helps warm the vehicle and regulate the battery temperature.
Environmentally friendly emissions
FCEVs emit only pure water vapor, with no carbon dioxide or other pollutants.
Disadvantages
Lack of infrastructure
- Europe currently has only a few hundred hydrogen refueling stations.
- In Hungary, there are only 1-2 test stations in Budapest and Zalaegerszeg.
High costs
- Hydrogen cars are significantly more expensive than electric alternatives.
- Hydrogen fuel is also costly, €10-12/kg, or roughly 3000-3500 HUF/kg.
Energy efficiency
- The “electricity-to-wheels” efficiency for FCEVs is only ~25-30%, compared to ~70-80% for BEVs.
- Hydrogen production, transport, and refueling introduce additional energy losses.
Hydrogen production
- Currently, most hydrogen is produced from fossil fuels (gray hydrogen).
- “Green hydrogen” (from renewable energy) remains scarce and expensive.
Comparison with battery electric vehicles
| Factor | Hydrogen car (FCEV) | Battery electric car (BEV) |
|---|---|---|
| Refueling time | 3-5 minutes | 20-60 minutes (fast charger) |
| Range | 500-700 km | 300-600 km |
| Infrastructure | In its infancy | Developed and growing fast |
| Energy efficiency | ~25-30% | ~70-80% |
| Fuel cost | High | Decreasing (depends on tariff) |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Vehicle cost | High | Decreasing |
Where does hydrogen have potential?
Heavy-duty vehicles
In trucks and buses, fast refueling and long range are major advantages. In logistics, where vehicles often cover hundreds of kilometers daily, hydrogen can be a key solution.
Rail, shipping, aviation
In sectors where building electric infrastructure is challenging (remote rail lines, maritime shipping, small aircraft), hydrogen offers a viable alternative.
Large fleet operators
Standardized refueling and fast turnaround times appeal to corporate fleets, taxi companies, and public transport operators.
Industrial applications
Hydrogen is also being considered for industrial machinery, forklifts, and heavy construction equipment.
Who is shaping the hydrogen future?
Automakers
- Toyota: active in fuel cell truck projects alongside the Mirai.
- Hyundai: Nexo and XCIENT Fuel Cell heavy-duty truck division.
- BMW: demonstration project under the name iX5 Hydrogen.
- Mercedes-Benz: GenH2 Truck project.
Fuel producers
- Air Liquide, Linde, Shell – developing hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
European Union and government programs
- EU Hydrogen Strategy aims to produce millions of tons of green hydrogen by 2030.
- Hungary is also implementing a National Hydrogen Strategy.
Future trends
- For now, BEVs are dominant in the passenger car market.
- Hydrogen is expected to play a bigger role in industrial and public transportation.
- The European Union is targeting an expansion of “green hydrogen” production.
- 2025-2030 will see the launch of many new truck and bus projects.
- Hydrogen-powered trains are already operational in several European countries (e.g. Germany).
Frequently asked questions
Will hydrogen cars become popular among private users? Given current costs and limited infrastructure, probably not in the near future—though niche markets may exist.
Is hydrogen safe? Today’s tanks meet strict explosion test standards, and are subject to rigorous safety regulations.
What are the biggest challenges? Developing infrastructure, producing affordable green hydrogen, and decarbonizing the entire supply chain.
How durable is an FCEV? Modern fuel cells typically last 300,000-500,000 km, with continuous technological improvements.
Summary
Hydrogen-powered car technology is now mature and reliable, but due to economic and infrastructure limitations, it currently has little chance of competing with BEVs in the passenger car segment.
However, in heavy-duty transport, industrial applications, and specialized transportation sectors (rail, shipping, aviation), hydrogen is likely to play a significant role over the long term.
The outcome will not be an “either-or” scenario, but rather a landscape of complementary technologies: BEVs will likely dominate personal transportation, while hydrogen could become crucial in logistics and industrial mobility.
The next 5-10 years will determine whether “hydrogen-powered dinosaurs” go extinct, or evolve into an integral part of a new, sustainable transportation ecosystem.