Electric vs hydrogen
- yassine zeddou
- Sep 27, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 12, 2024

In search of a more environmentally friendly planet, the transportation sector is at an important crossroads. Switching to electric vs. hydrogen, a clean energy vehicle is more than an option; it is a must.
There is a choice between electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (Fcvs), each taking a different approach to sustainable driving.

electric vehicle
In recent years, electric vehicles have become increasingly popular. Electric vehicles use the electrical energy stored in batteries to drive electric motors and drive cars forward. The entire system is powered by charging at home or through a public charging network.
Benefits
_No exhaust gas
_Very energy efficient
_Low operating costs
_Rich charging infrastructure
Minuses
_Manufacturing and disposal of batteries is difficult
_The charging time will take a long time
_Range limits compared to conventional vehicles

Hydrogen (Fcv)
A hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (fcv) converts hydrogen gas into electricity and supplies power to an electric motor.
At the heart of this process is a fuel cell that combines hydrogen with oxygen in the atmosphere through an electrochemical reaction to produce electricity, water and heat as by-products.
Once generated, the current is immediately used to drive the electric motor or temporarily stored in a small battery that provides additional power when accelerating.
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles operate efficiently, releasing only water vapor from the exhaust gases.
Unlike battery-powered electric vehicles, FCVs can be refueled with hydrogen in a short time, just like conventional cars.
Benefits:
_ Fast refueling times comparable to conventional vehicles
_ The only release is water vapor
_ Potential for long term
Minuses
_ Lack of infrastructure for hydrogen refueling
_ High cost of hydrogen production
_Efficiency loss in the process
Comparison
Energy efficiency – Electric vehicles are more well-to-wheel efficient than Fcvs. This is because it converts power from the grid directly into movement, with less conversion loss and achieving about 20-30% efficiency compared to 60-70% Fcv.
Environmental Impact - The environmental impact of both electric and fuel cell vehicles is heavily dependent on decarbonization of the power grid and the introduction of sustainable hydrogen production. If both are produced from renewable sources, the environmental impact will be minimal.
Infrastructure - The current electric vehicle infrastructure is more developed and popular than Fcv. Electric vehicles have an increasing network of charging stations being built in urban areas, highway service stations, and private homes.
In contrast, hydrogen refueling infrastructure is not established due to higher costs and technical challenges.
Power and Comfort - Electric vehicles are known for their rapid acceleration due to the instant torque of the engine. However, charging with a quick charger can take up to 20 minutes, which is significantly slower than refuel a hydrogen car. Hydrogen vehicles also offer a longer range per tank of fuel.
Cost - Due to the high cost of technology, both electric vehicles and Fcvs initially tend to have a higher purchase price compared to traditional vehicles.
conclusion
Both electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen vehicles (Hvs) provide a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles. While electric vehicles are more energy efficient and have an expanded charging infrastructure, they face challenges in terms of range and charging time. HVS, on the other hand, provide faster refueling and longer cruising range, but suffer from limited refueling infrastructure and higher production costs. Overall, electric vehicles now have a head start 12 for their efficiency and a growing support network.




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