Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles

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What Consumers Want to Know About Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles

The world is moving towards zero-emission cars and trucks, and hydrogen is sure to be the preferred choice for many Americans.  Hydrogen comes with several advantages, such as:

  • Fast refueling,
  • Extensive driving range,
  • Zero-emissions performance, and
  • Dealer incentives such as extended warranties or free fuel.

Experts anticipate consumers who live in colder climates, those who drive long distances, and people who rely on their vehicles for heavy-duty load-hauling will choose hydrogen because of its ability to perform better in these conditions.  Yet, most consumers are less familiar with hydrogen fuel cell vehicles than with standard battery electric vehicles and hybrids.  Here are a handful of questions they often have.

Five FAQs about Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles

  1. Is it safe to drive a vehicle powered by hydrogen fuel?  Yes, vehicles powered by hydrogen fuel are safer in many ways than those powered byHydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles conventional gasoline and diesel.  The hydrogen storage tanks in the vehicle are constructed of material strong enough to repel a bullet shot at close range.  Because hydrogen is less dense than gasoline and diesel, fuel spills vaporize immediately, reducing risks associated with fuel fires or spills into natural waterways.
  2. How do you refuel a hydrogen vehicle?  The refueling process is similar to a vehicle powered by gasoline or diesel.  A similar nozzle is used, and the refueling time is nearly identical.  Most drivers realize little to no difference in the refueling process.
  3. Why are hydrogen fuel cell cars so expensive?  First of all, manufacturers are producing them at lower volumes, which means each unit costs more to make.  As they become more popular, production will increase, and prices will become more affordable.  Additionally, there are financial incentives available for many people to purchase hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
  4. What is holding consumers back from purchasing hydrogen fuel cell vehicles?  The most significant hurdle in the proliferation of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles on our roads is the refueling infrastructure.  Currently, most hydrogen fuel stations are in California.  Experts forecast an expansion of refueling stations nationwide as hydrogen fuel becomes the preferred alternative energy source for long-haul truckers and other commercial vehicles.
  5. Where can I buy a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle?  Currently, the supply of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for consumers is limited, with most vehicles manufactured by Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai.  However, several other carmakers have announced plans to manufacture hydrogen fuel cell vehicles as legislators and consumers lean more heavily towards limiting car sales to zero-emission vehicles. 

Now is the time for fuel station owners to diversify their products with hydrogen fuel.

The Andretti Group with PowerTap Hydrogen allows fuel station owners to produce hydrogen fuel on-site, with a production unit taking up less than 1,000 square feet of space.  Our units can produce over 1,250 kg of pure hydrogen each day using only city water, natural gas, and electricity.  With PowerTap Hydrogen, it’s possible to produce fuel at less than $2 per kilogram–that’s about $9 less than purchasing hydrogen fuel from a wholesaler or producing it onsite via alternative solutions.

If you’re interested in diversifying your current product mix or would like to begin a journey in the exciting future of alternative energy solutions, contact our team at the Andretti Group today.  We’d love to show you how easy it is to be a part of the hydrogen fuel revolution.