FCVs

Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) are road vehicles that generate electricity on board with a fuel cell stack fed by hydrogen. Their tailpipe emissions are limited to water vapor and heat, making FCVs a zero-emission option at the point of use.

Most FCVs use proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells and store hydrogen in high-pressure tanks (commonly around 350 bar, some systems at 700 bar). An electric motor drives the wheels, and a battery or capacitor provides peak power and energy buffering. Hydrogen is refilled quickly, offering ranges comparable to gasoline vehicles in many models.

Advantages include zero tailpipe pollutants, quick refueling, and potentially favorable range and efficiency in certain conditions. Challenges include the production, transport, and storage of hydrogen, the high cost and complexity of fuel cells, and a sparse refueling network. The climate benefit depends on producing hydrogen from low-emission sources.

In global markets, FCVs have seen uptake in Japan, Korea, parts of Europe and North America. Notable models include the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo; earlier offerings included the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell and the Mercedes-Benz GLC F-CELL. Beyond cars, fuel cells are used in buses and trucks, and hydrogen infrastructure is a major policy focus.

Overall, FCVs form part of broader decarbonization strategies for transport. Their success depends on developing low-carbon hydrogen and expanding refueling networks alongside advances in fuel-cell efficiency and cost reductions.