Electric cars are currently dominated by those equipped with batteries, but there is another alternative that could play a major role in the years to come: hydrogen. This energy source is considered the main alternative to traditional engines, although a series of logistical challenges complicate its deployment. Despite this, some manufacturers continue to bet on hydrogen and fuel cells by offering a specific range of models.
Hydrogen is popular in other sectors, such as energy, but is still struggling to establish itself in the automobile industry. The difficulties associated with transporting and storing hydrogen prevent it from becoming the main substitute for fossil fuels.
Here we present to you a list of 10 models running on hydrogen, which have all the necessary infrastructure for this technology, including tanks to store this element. Like electric cars with lithium-ion batteries, these vehicles do not emit polluting particles, producing only water as waste.
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Here are some of the hydrogen-powered cars you may not have heard of
1. Riversimple Rasa
The Riversimple Rasa is a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle designed to be ultra-light and efficient. With a minimalist approach, it aims for sustainable mobility with a reduced carbon footprint. The Rasa is designed primarily for urban and peri-urban journeys, offering a range of around 300 miles (around 483 km) on a full tank of hydrogen.
2. Honda CR-V e:FCEV
The Honda CR-V e:FCEV is a fuel cell version of the popular CR-V SUV. It combines the advantages of a battery electric vehicle with those of a hydrogen fuel cell, providing extended range and a fast refueling time, comparable to that of a traditional gasoline vehicle.
3. Toyota Mirai
The Toyota Mirai is one of the first mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Initially launched in 2014, the Mirai was designed to offer a zero-emission alternative to traditional vehicles. With a range of approximately 400 miles (approximately 644 km), it represents Toyota's commitment to clean mobility technologies.
4. Hyundai N Vision 74
The Hyundai N Vision 74 is a concept car that combines a hydrogen fuel cell with an electric battery, offering sporty performance while remaining environmentally friendly. Inspired by the classic design of the 1974 Hyundai Pony Coupe Concept, the N Vision 74 highlights Hyundai's vision for the future of sustainable motorsports.
5. NamX HUV
The NamX HUV is a unique hybrid utility vehicle concept, equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell and a removable hydrogen capsule system. This innovative approach aims to make hydrogen refueling easier and the technology more accessible.
6. GM Electrovan
The GM Electrovan is considered the first experimental hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, developed by General Motors in 1966. Although it never entered production, the Electrovan demonstrated the potential of hydrogen as a fuel for vehicles electrical.
7. Renault Scenic Vision
The Renault Scénic Vision is a concept car that integrates a hydrogen fuel cell to extend its range. This vehicle, which emphasizes sustainability and innovation, illustrates Renault's vision for cleaner and more efficient mobility.
8. Toyota GR Yaris H2
The Toyota GR Yaris H2 is an experimental prototype that explores the use of hydrogen as a fuel in internal combustion engines. This project aims to combine the benefits of hydrogen in terms of zero emissions with the driving pleasure of a combustion engine.
9. Toyota FCHV-4
The Toyota FCHV-4 (Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle) is one of the first fuel cell vehicle prototypes developed by Toyota. Although not intended for mass production, it played a crucial role in the research and development of fuel cell technology at Toyota.
10. Mercedes-Benz F-Cell
The Mercedes-Benz F-Cell is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle that is part of Mercedes-Benz's commitment to sustainable mobility solutions. Offering a range comparable to that of gasoline vehicles and a fast refueling time, the F-Cell shows how hydrogen can contribute to emissions-free mobility.
These models illustrate the diversity and innovation in the field of hydrogen vehicles, from the first prototypes to current production vehicles. They also show the automotive industry's commitment to developing sustainable, zero-emission mobility solutions.
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Although most are still at the prototype stage, this technology is very present in the research and development departments of the main manufacturers. A network of large-scale hydrogen refueling stations is needed, but its commercial success remains limited due to various factors. In this restricted segment, economies of scale are almost non-existent, with production limited to a very small number of units each year. In addition, the rare models available on the market are offered at uncompetitive prices.
Mercedes-Benz is one of the manufacturers most committed to hydrogen with the F-Cell model. The Honda CR-V e:FCEV perfectly illustrates the flexibility offered by this technology, combining a battery-powered electric motor with a hydrogen fuel cell, without polluting emissions. With the exception of the MIRAI and a few Chinese vehicles, most options were developed for research purposes.
Currently, manufacturers do not seem ready to go against the trend for electric batteries. Companies like Tesla have strongly influenced the demand for these types of vehicles, a situation that could change in the coming years. Nevertheless, giants like Toyota continue to explore hybridization while researching hydrogen.