Hydrogen vs. Electric Cars: Comparing Innovative Sustainability
The shift from traditional fossil fuel-powered to electric cars has dramatically accelerated in recent years, galvanised by the public’s increasing recognition of the climate change threat. However, consumers may be less aware of the wide and ever-growing growing array of options available in the “green” vehicle sector. In fact, while much of the conversation surrounding zero-emission vehicles centres on battery-powered EVs, innovations in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are gaining prominence.
Hydrogen vs. Electric Cars
Our environment is in crisis. That, unfortunately, is not news. What may be surprising to most people, however, is the dramatic acceleration in interest, access, and purchase intention for electric vehicles (EV).
Nevertheless, not all EV technologies are created equal. While the majority of EV promotions and sales involve battery-powered EVs, ongoing innovations in hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) are making them an increasingly attractive option for some consumers. This article compares the pros and cons of standard EVs and FCEVs.
Lifetime Carbon Footprint
At first blush, it would seem that FCEVs enjoy a distinct advantage over standard EVs when it comes to their lifetime carbon footprint. FCEVs produce electricity by injecting hydrogen into the vehicle’s fuel cells, rather than drawing electricity from a battery, as with most standard EVs. Because the only by-product of the process of converting hydrogen into electricity is water, no harmful emissions are released.
However, there is a caveat, not related to the process of turning hydrogen into electricity but rather to the production and storage of hydrogen. Because hydrogen is a gas that is rarely found on Earth, it must often be generated through a range of means. How hydrogen is produced will greatly impact the lifetime carbon footprint of an FCEV.
BY CHARLIE FLETCHER – AUG 26TH 2022 – Click Here to read the full article
