The viability of hydrogen as an alternative for heavy-duty vehicles

World authorities continue to try to establish biofuels as the new standard for vehicles

Russian research vessels have reported the discovery of vast oil and gas reserves in the British Antarctic Territory, where expropriation is prohibited. It is estimated that these reserves contain around 511 billion barrels of oil. Amid escalating global tensions, this discovery has raised fears that existing international agreements may be insufficient to prevent competition for resources. However, despite the news and stable oil prices, global authorities continue in their attempt to establish biofuels as the new standard for vehicles. But is this the best option?

The debate on the viability of hydrogen as a fuel for heavy-duty vehicles is underway. While some argue that its high cost makes it impractical, others believe it will equalize in cost with diesel within a few years. Despite economic challenges, companies worldwide are innovating to promote its use in trucks, planes, and ships.

Currently, political will and decarbonization efforts are fueling interest in this fuel. However, the development of production and infrastructure for hydrogen faces obstacles, especially due to the lack of standardization.

Hydrogen fuel for heavy-duty vehicles, is it viable?

There are two different methods of hydrogen propulsion: hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). Environmentally conscious fleets operating in long-haul and bulk applications may consider hydrogen a better option than pure electric vehicles. Weight savings influence range, allowing for more energy storage. Additionally, refueling time for a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle is faster than that of a heavy BEV, with prospects for improvement as technology advances.

Liquid hydrogen may seem like the best option for refueling infrastructure, but it’s more complicated than that. While efficient at high turnover depots, it can experience evaporation if stored for long periods in low turnover tanks.

The U.S. federal government is investing in a potential hydrogen production network, reserving $8 billion to fund hydrogen hubs across the country. The goal is to produce over 3 million tons of hydrogen per year. Other federal investments include tax incentives for medium and heavy-duty vehicles, the pursuit of clean energy technologies, and investment in hydrogen electrolysis and manufacturing and recycling R&D activities.

Despite advancements and investments, the cost of hydrogen remains a challenge. In California, for example, it is 2.5 times higher than gasoline. However, its greater range and potential cost parity in the future make hydrogen an option to consider for heavy-duty vehicles, especially with government initiatives backing its development.