With global warming and rising fuel costs, it is essential to find the next source of energy, especially one that is environmentally friendly. Hybrids, electric cars, and biodiesel cars are increasingly popular, so manufacturers continually work to find the next great green model. The latest trend is cars fueled by hydrogen. Several auto manufacturers have models at different stages in the manufacturing process, hoping to become the leading eco-friendly automaker.
Why Hydrogen Fuel Cells?
Hydrogen is the most abundant molecule in the atmosphere, although it typically exists as part of a molecule with other atoms, such as water (hydrogen and oxygen). Hydrogen gas can fuel cells in any type of engines, just as other gases do. One of the best benefits of using hydrogen is that it is zero-emissions; in fact, its only byproduct is water vapor. It is also non-toxic, unlike most current fuel sources, and completely renewable.
Hydrogen fuel cells have already been used to power rockets and spaceships. Hydrogen power is actually safer for such energy-intensive programs. It is also three times as powerful as other forms of energy, meaning less is needed to power it. This makes it much more fuel-efficient than other sources of energy. Additionally, the engines are less complicated and have fewer weaknesses than current engines, so they require less maintenance.
Disadvantages of Hydrogen Power
Although hydrogen has many benefits, there are still some major impediments to its becoming a widely available fuel source. One of the biggest disadvantages of the fuel is that in gas form, it is volatile and flammable, which means it can be dangerous if not stored properly. Although hydrogen itself is environmentally friendly, separating the hydrogen atoms requires fossil fuels.
The biggest impediment to its ubiquitous use is cost. With the current technology, it is expensive to create, so until a less expensive way to make it becomes available, it is not a cost-efficient source of fuel. It also is difficult to store and transport and will require an entirely new infrastructure to become widely available that will cost billions to create.
Recently, the U.S. Department of Energy announced an investment of $20 million for increasing the efficiency of hydrogen fuel, so that could help to overcome some of the economic hurdles. It has also created a project to expedite the design and construction of fueling stations for hydrogen cars.
Manufacturers Designing Hydrogen Fueled Cars
Despite the disadvantages of hydrogen power, its numerous advantages have led to its being a popular design for new models. Several companies are working on models that will be fueled by hydrogen fuel cells, known as FCV or FCEV. The main contenders at this stage are Mercedes, Toyota, Hyundai and Honda.
Mercedes recently began a pilot program for a fuel cell vehicle in its B-class. They have been working on the technology for almost 20 years, and the model can drive 190 miles between refueling, and it features a 134 horsepower engine.
Toyota recently showcased a concept FCV at the Toyota Motor Show in Tokyo and the CES 2014. Its model is expected to arrive on the market in 2015.
Honda has also released a concept vehicle modeled on its FCX Clarity, which they revealed at the LA Auto Show. Honda’s concept vehicle features a 134 horsepower engine and a driving range of 300 miles.
Hyundai’s Tucson SUV FCV is already on the market in a limited release, with leases available for $499 per month in California only. It can go 265 miles between fill ups and will drive at a top speed of 100mph.
It will still be years before hydrogen cars become a reality for the regular customer. However, by having more automakers interested in the concept, the technology will continue to develop and bring hydrogen fuel closer to a reality.
photo credit: Ben Garrett via photopin cc