Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars: Yay or Nay?

Are hydrogen fuel cell cars the way of the future? Well, when it comes to motoring, we’ve seen all sorts of predictions. From flying and self driving cars to electric vehicles and… hydrogen cars! Some are a reality, while others aren’t quite there.

While you might not be keen on driving (ahem, piloting) a flying car anytime soon, many Australians are researching hydrogen fuel cell cars. So, to answer the question of whether these cars are feasible any time soon, let’s take a look at the possibilities…

Firstly, how do hydrogen fuel cell cars work?

Hydrogen cars have a fuel cell, but they don’t use fuel right? Correct. The hydrogen car actually uses electrical energy. This energy starts out as hydrogen gas which goes into a fuel cell. From there it gets converted to electricity. That’s why these cars are called hydrogen fuel cell cars.

What’s exceptional about Hydrogen car technology is that the only waste product is water! That’s right, when hydrogen gas is converted to create electricity it also creates water (and heat). Talk about clean energy!

What is hydrogen gas and is it renewable?

Hydrogen gas isn’t a renewable resource, but it can be made using renewable energy. Sadly that’s not the case as of yet. Currently, most hydrogen gas is made from fossil fuels.

This is a problem because we need to stop using fossil fuels wherever possible. These non-replaceable energy sources don’t just get depleted. They’re clearly also wreaking havoc with our environment.

When will hydrogen cars be available in Australia?

According to the government’s Green Vehicle Guide, plans for hydrogen car projects are in the pipeline. But at the moment, only two hydrogen car models – Toyota and Hyundai – have been approved in Australia.

That said. according to the Green Vehicle Guide they’re “available for special order only and not for everyday sale and use.”

The good news (maybe for the future anyway!) is that hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles do fall into the government’s Electric Car Discount list. Read more about electric car rebates in Australia.

Also read our article that answers the question: Are petrol and diesel cars being banned in Australia?

Are hydrogen cars better than electric?

Well, they’re both essentially types of electric cars because both drive using electricity. Also, both still largely use fossil fuels. Electric cars use electricity and most of ours in Australia comes from burning coal. Likewise hydrogen cars often use natural gas to produce the hydrogen.

Pros and cons

Basically, both have upsides provided you use renewables to power their energy source. But as we know, only electric cars have really taken off and become available to Australians. You still can’t walk into the dealership and get yourself a hydrogen fuel cell car.

One reason is that hydrogen is harder to store and transport and the hydrogen fuel cell itself is costly. On the other hand, hydrogen cars charge must faster than electric vehicles and have a long range. They can charge in as little as five minutes. For those of us who don’t even like charging our phones or laptops, this would be a major win.

Electric cars in Australia

While electric cars are still fairly pricey, you certainly get your money back on fuel savings. As these cars become more popular their prices will decrease, plus as we mentioned there’s the rebate program in some states and territories.

So, while you can’t head out to buy yourself a hydrogen car, and the chances seem slim this will change anytime soon, maybe you’re still gunning for electric over petrol?

If you’re in the market for an energy efficient car, here are nine electric and hybrid vehicle tips:

1. Electric car questions to ask your dealer
2. How to choose the best electric car for you
3. 5 must knows for buying electric cars in Australia
4. Are hybrid cars green enough?
5. Electric cars – expectations vs reality
6. Latest, greatest and safest electric cars
7. Insuring a Tesla (how is it different?)
8. Zero emission vehicles – where are we at?
9. Different types of electric vehicles

Alternatives to hydrogen fuel cell cars

While we know that hydrogen cars aren’t about to become the next big thing in Australia ATM, not everyone can afford to get an electric car. While we’ve already covered off electric car options, what else can we do to drive greener?

Thankfully, there are plenty of steps each of us can take to reduce our carbon driving footprint.

Here are some tips:

• Green cars and how to help the planet
• Five tips for improving fuel efficiency
• Fuel consumption comparison when buying a car
• Why is car tyre pressure so important?
• Most fuel efficient cars in Australia
• How do cars contribute to global warming and how to help

Now onto something car related other than hydrogen cars…

Car insurance for peace of mind

If your car gets into a scrape it can be costly to fix, tow, and/or replace. Not to mention possible costs you’ll potentially need to pay for damage to someone else’s car or property if you’re responsible. If your car gets stolen, replacing it can be a dent to your savings too.

Thankfully, car insurance can give you the soft landing you deserve and help pay for many of these costs depending on the plan you choose. Simply select the level of cover that suits your pocket and your car. Get a quote – it’s easy, just click the little button below.