In a world where we are effectively moving towards a sustainable mobility, hydrogen cars present themselves as one of the trendy alternatives. Hydrogen, being the most abundant element in the universe and on Earth, can be obtained through aprocesses involving renewable energies. That is why its potential is undeniable, but… are hydrogen cars the future of sustainable mobility?
This article will go in depth on how they work, their advantages and disadvantages and the parts this vehicle uses. Furthermore, we will give you an ANSWERS to the most intriguing question: are they the future?
Hydrogen cars are alternative vehicles using an electric motor. Different from conventional electric cars, hydrogen cars generate electricity autonomously through a fuel cell.
There are two main types:
These vehicles work similarly to conventional internal combustion motors. However, instead of exhausting polluting gas they only release water. They are just in a test phase of development, however they pose an interesting option for the future.
FCEVs are capable of turning hydrogen into electric energy. This electricity is saved in a battery and powers the electric motor. Its functioning is similar to the electric vehicle but instead of using a rechargeable battery, the energy comes from the fuel cell. If green-sourced hydrogen is used, carbon footprint is practically neutral, that is why these vehicles enjoy the zero-emission environmental label granted by DGT.
This vehicle’s functioning is based on a chemical process called electrolysis. During this process, some chemical component’s elements are separated by electricity creating a reduction reaction (release of electrons) and oxidation (electron capture).
The hydrogen required for electrolysis is saved in one or several tanks usually located under the back seats or the trunk. This hydrogen is combined with oxygen in the combustible battery to produce water and electricity. The electricity is saved in the fuel cell and is used to power the motor while the water is eliminated as vapor through the exhaust tube.
Now, we are going to detail the key components of a hydrogen car:
The Spanish automotive suppliers, as part of the investment in sustainable mobility, have been already researching for years on how to contribute to the hydrogen car development. An example of this is FAE testing, from 2021, several materials for the solid oxide’s fuel cell.
Regardless the challenges, hydrogen cars have potential to become an important part of sustainable mobility. With clean emissions, longer autonomy and fast recharging times, they can play a crucial role in the transition towards a more ecologic transport.
In the same way, despite of the progress of technology, turning combustible cars into hydrogen ones is mainly performed in an experimental environment or by enthusiasts with advanced technical knowledge. It is expected that in the future, with the development of more accessible technologies with specific standards, this process can become more practical and accessible for a wider audience. However, any conversion of this sort should undergo a rigorous approval process carried out by a specialized approval laboratory for cars to ensure that those modifications meet with the safety and performance regulations.
The Spanish automotive industry is well-known internationally because of its excellence and innovation capabilities.
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