This article focuses on hydrogen vehicles, also known as fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). It highlights such vehicles’ limitations and some current and future hydrogen vehicles. It highlights funding options available to businesses pushing the boundaries within the automotive industry.
Hydrogen Vehicles Advancement
BMW’s CEO, Oliver Zipse, announced that hydrogen-powered vehicles, also known as fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), will play an important role in the future of sustainable transportation. While electric vehicles have been the primary focus for zero-emission car manufacturers, hydrogen vehicles that use fuel cells emitting only water vapour are gaining attention (Hydrogen Central, 2024).
In recent years, there have been significant advancements in the development of FCVs. One of the major obstacles in the development of FCV technology was the high cost and low durability of the fuel cell stack, which is the heart of the vehicle’s powertrain. Fortunately, recent developments in materials science and manufacturing have made the fuel cell stack less expensive and more durable.
Another notable technological advancement in hydrogen fuel cells is the development of solid-state hydrogen storage. This method uses materials such as metal hydrides to keep hydrogen in a solid form, making it easier and safer to store and transport. Another advancement is the use of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, which are more efficient, lighter, and smaller than traditional alkaline fuel cells.
Moreover, automakers are exploring renewable sources of hydrogen, such as using electrolysis to produce hydrogen from water using eco-friendly energy sources like wind and solar power. These advancements are making it possible for hydrogen cars to become more accepted and adopted in the mainstream market.
Limitations of Hydrogen Vehicles
Some limitations still need to be addressed before hydrogen vehicles become a more popular choice. For one, there is a need for more infrastructure for hydrogen refuelling stations. There are concerns about the environmental impact of hydrogen production and potential emissions in areas without renewable energy.
Additionally, the cost of producing and storing hydrogen is still relatively high compared to traditional gasoline. The range of hydrogen vehicles is also limited, and there needs to be more variety in models available on the market. Finally, there are safety concerns related to hydrogen fuel storage and handling, as well as the lack of established safety regulations.
More research and development are needed to enable the widespread adoption of hydrogen technology and achieve sustainable, safe, and cost-effective solutions. Hence, Hyundai has introduced two innovative techniques—waste-to-hydrogen (W2H) and plastic-to-hydrogen (P2H)—that are capable of converting organic and manufactured waste into sustainable fuel.
Some of the hydrogen vehicles of the now and the future:
Several prominent automotive companies like Toyota, Honda, BMW, and Hyundai are shifting towards renewable hydrogen sources. This transition plays a crucial role in driving the growth of fuel cell vehicles in the mainstream market. In 2023, China witnessed a remarkable 70% surge in the sales of hydrogen-powered vehicles, making it the only Asian country to experience growth in FCEV sales last year and, consequently, the largest FCEV market globally. (Martin, 2024).
Toyota Introduces 2024 Mirai Fuel Cell Vehicle – The 2024 Toyota Mirai Fuel Cell Vehicle has been launched, with an EPA-estimated range of 402 miles. The new model comes with upgrades such as an Elemental Silver exterior colour option and Beyond Zero badging, signifying Toyota’s commitment towards reducing carbon emissions. Toyota offers up to $15,000 worth of complementary hydrogen to customers who buy or lease the 2024 Mirai to incentivise their commitment to sustainability and carbon footprint reduction (Toyota USA Newsroom, 2024).
Honda Shows CR-V Fuel Cell, Arriving 2024 – Honda and General Motors have developed a new fuel-cell module unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2023. The module has now been approved for use in North America. It will be introduced to Europe for various applications, such as passenger cars, commercial vehicles, construction equipment, and stationary power generation. The compact module can start quickly, even in low temperatures. Honda’s CR-V will be the first vehicle in North America to debut the new module, which will be manufactured in Ohio starting in 2024 (Edelstein, 2023). Honda also plans to release a hydrogen-powered version of its compact SUV, the CR-V, with plug-in capability and a small battery pack. The CR-V fuel cell production is already underway in Michigan and is expected to be available for purchase later this year (Capparella, 2024).
BMW is on the way to hydro vroom and is good for electric cars – Hydrogen Central, 2024 reported that BMW is shifting its focus to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, which it believes will play a significant role in the future of automobile transportation.
According to La Grada, 2024, BMW is testing a new hydrogen car, the BMW iX5, in different countries, including South Africa. Although the iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet is being tested in South Africa, it has yet to be made available for sale. BMW is collaborating with Anglo-American Platinum and Sasol to develop hydrogen fuel cell technology for electric vehicles. BMW and Sasol, a multinational integrated chemical and energy corporation, have joined forces to create the Sasol BMW Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (Sasol BMW FCEV).
Dr. Juergen Guldner, BMW’s General Program Manager, believes hydrogen-powered cars can complement battery-electric vehicles rather than compete. Guldner suggests that frequent travellers and those without access to electric charging may find hydrogen cars a better option as they offer the benefits of electric driving and quick recharging. The iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet is still in the testing phase and is unavailable for sale. The upcoming BMW iX5 Hydrogen is expected to make its debut in 2024 and will offer features such as rapid refuelling, consistent driving range, and comparable performance to electric vehicles (La Grada, 2024). Oliver Zipse, BMW’s CEO, emphasised that hydrogen engines will play a crucial role globally in the long run. BMW aims to deliver these cars by 2025.
(BMW, 2024)
Hyundai Nexo: Green Zooming Into A Fuel Cell Future – Hyundai has recently made a bold announcement regarding its push towards a hydrogen-powered future. The South Korean automaker plans to launch the next-generation Nexo fuel-cell SUV in 2025. To complement this, Hyundai has also introduced two innovative techniques – Waste-to-Hydrogen (W2H) and Plastic-to-Hydrogen (P2H) – that are capable of converting organic and manufactured waste into sustainable fuel. The company is determined to prove that hydrogen propulsion remains viable for various sectors, including non-automotive and private passenger vehicles. The release of the Nexo was initially delayed due to technological development, demand, and viability issues. However, Hyundai has partnered with W.L. Gore & Associates and made significant advancements in polymer electrolyte membranes (PEMs), which has put the production of the all-new Nexo back on track (Byrnes, 2024).
(Byrnes, 2024)
(Byrnes, 2024)Research and development incentives available to businesses pushing the boundaries within the automotive industry:
(Elevate R&D Solutions, 2024)UK-based automotive companies can access several funding options to facilitate research and development (R&D) innovation. One of the most popular funding options is provided by Innovate UK, a government agency offering grants to support innovative R&D projects in various sectors, including the automotive industry. Another funding option is the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), which funds projects to develop low-carbon automotive technologies. Additionally, UK automotive firms can access funding programs offered by the European Union (EU), such as Horizon 2020 and the European Regional Development Fund. Other sources of funds include Patent Boxes, R&D tax credits and Energy Tax Incentives.
Innovative companies can also benefit from R&D Tax relief, a tax incentive aimed at encouraging research and development activities. To best identify the most suitable funding option based on specific needs and goals, it is recommended that companies partner with a consultancy firm such as Elevate R&D Solutions. By doing so, companies can access the necessary support to navigate the available incentives.
Is your organisation operates within the automotive, manufacturing, or information technology industries and is focused on developing environmentally friendly, secure, and cost-effective automotive solutions or enhancing existing technologies? Elevate R&D Solutions can provide valuable assistance in securing funds such as Grants, R&D tax credits, Patent Boxes, and Energy Tax Incentives for your eligible research and development initiatives. This financial support will enable your organisation to continue pushing the boundaries beyond the current technological or scientific baseline, fostering innovation and staying ahead of the curve.
Conclusion:
The Chief Executive Officer of BMW, Oliver Zipse, has expressed his confidence in the potential of hydrogen-powered vehicles to play a significant role in sustainable transportation. An increasing number of automotive companies, including Toyota, Honda, BMW, and Hyundai, are transitioning towards renewable hydrogen sources, contributing to fuel cell vehicles’ mainstream market growth. Advancements in materials science and manufacturing have led to the development of more durable and less expensive fuel cell stacks, while solid-state hydrogen storage and proton exchange membrane fuel cells are making hydrogen cars more efficient, lightweight, and compact. Automakers are examining various eco-friendly energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to produce hydrogen through electrolysis. Despite these advances, some limitations to adopting hydrogen vehicles exist, such as a need for hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, environmental concerns, and cost. However, Hyundai has introduced innovative techniques such as Waste-to-Hydrogen and Plastic-to-Hydrogen to tackle some of these challenges. Nonetheless, further research and development are necessary to create more sustainable, safe, and cost-effective solutions to facilitate the widespread adoption of hydrogen technology.
UK-based automotive companies can access multiple funding options to facilitate research and development (R&D) innovation, such as Innovate UK, Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), and the European Union (EU) funding programs. Companies can also benefit from R&D Tax relief to encourage research and development activities. Companies can partner with a consultancy firm like Elevate R&D Solutions to determine the most suitable funding option. Elevate R&D Solutions can provide valuable assistance in accessing Grants, R&D tax credits, Patent Boxes, and Energy Tax Incentives for eligible research and development initiatives, enabling companies to stay ahead of the curve and foster innovation.