For over a century, vehicles powered by internal combustion engines (ICE) have been the standard. However, with growing concerns about economic inefficiencies and environmental harm, automakers are searching for better alternatives. One interesting solution is the hydrogen electric vehicle, which offers zero emissions and quick refueling. But how do these vehicles compare to ICE-powered cars and electric vehicles (EVs)?
1. There Is A Distinction In Exterior Appearance
The power source often influences the styling of vehicles. EVs, for example, have front and rear trunks due to the lack of a traditional engine. In comparison, hydrogen-powered vehicles and ICE cars have similar layouts with front-mounted engines, cooling systems, and rear fuel tanks. However, hydrogen vehicles have more flexibility in styling as their by-product is water.
2. HFCVs Are Heavier
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles tend to be heavier than ICE cars. For example, the Toyota Mirai weighs between 4,255 and 4,335 pounds, while the Toyota Camry weighs around 3,310 to 3,595 pounds. This difference in weight can affect the overall practicality of fuel cell technology.
3. Things Are Quite Different Under The Skin
The major components of hydrogen fuel cell and ICE vehicles are similar, such as engines, fuel tanks, and batteries. However, modern gasoline cars have more compact powertrains and require only one battery. Hydrogen vehicles have a fuel cell stack located underneath the cabin, while gasoline cars do not have major components underneath the cabin.
4. ICE Cars Offer Better Cargo Space
ICE cars generally offer more compact options and better cargo space compared to the limited number of hydrogen electric vehicles available. Due to the space taken up by hydrogen fuel cell technology, these vehicles may sacrifice cargo space.
5. Refueling HFCVs Will Take About The Same Time As ICEs
Refueling a hydrogen car takes about five minutes, similar to refueling an ICE vehicle. This quick refueling time makes hydrogen vehicles more convenient compared to EVs.
6. Surprisingly, HFCVs Are A Tad Bit Slower
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles tend to be slightly slower than gasoline cars in terms of acceleration. However, their performance numbers are closely comparable in similar vehicle classes.
7. Hydrogen Is More Efficient In The Grand Scheme Of Things
Hydrogen-powered vehicles are more fuel-efficient compared to internal combustion engines. While ICE engines typically convert less than 20% of fuel into usable energy, hydrogen fuel cells can convert 40% to 60% of fuel into energy. This higher efficiency contributes to a reduced carbon footprint.
8. The Cost Of Production Of Hydrogen-powered Vehicles Is Higher
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are more expensive to produce compared to ICE cars. This higher cost is reflected in the selling price of hydrogen vehicles, making them less practical for some consumers.
9. Hydrogen-filling Stations Are Far And Few
There are significantly fewer hydrogen-filling stations compared to traditional gas stations. In the United States, there are around 107 hydrogen-filling stations, making it less convenient for hydrogen vehicle owners to refuel.
10. Very Few HFCVs Available At The Moment, But It Could Change
Only a few manufacturers currently offer hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for purchase. However, as technology progresses and public interest grows, more manufacturers may enter the market and provide a wider range of HFCVs.