Yes, it is possible to combine hydrogen and electric power into a single vehicle, and some automakers have already developed models that integrate both technologies. These vehicles are known as hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and they use hydrogen to generate electricity, which then powers an electric motor—similar to battery-electric vehicles (BEVs).
How Hydrogen and Electric Work Together
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles operate by converting hydrogen gas into electricity through a chemical reaction in the fuel cell stack. This electricity is then used to drive an electric motor, just like in a BEV. However, unlike BEVs, which rely solely on a battery for energy storage, FCEVs use hydrogen as their primary energy source.
Some hydrogen-powered vehicles also incorporate plug-in hybrid technology, allowing them to charge a small battery for additional range. A great example of this is the Honda CR-V e:FCEV, which combines a hydrogen fuel cell with a plug-in battery system, enabling short-distance electric driving without hydrogen consumption.
Advantages of Combining Hydrogen and Electric Power
- Instant Torque and Smooth Acceleration – Since hydrogen vehicles use electric motors, they provide instant torque and seamless acceleration, similar to BEVs.
- Extended Range – Hydrogen fuel cells offer longer driving ranges compared to battery-electric vehicles, making them ideal for long-distance travel.
- Quick Refueling – Hydrogen refueling takes only a few minutes, unlike battery charging, which can take hours.
- Lower Battery Dependency – Unlike BEVs, which rely entirely on large lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen-electric vehicles use smaller batteries, reducing concerns about battery degradation.
Challenges of Hydrogen-Electric Vehicles
- Limited Hydrogen Infrastructure – Hydrogen refueling stations are not as widespread as electric charging stations, making refueling difficult in some regions.
- Higher Production Costs – Fuel cell technology is still expensive compared to traditional battery-electric systems.
- Energy Efficiency – Hydrogen fuel cells involve energy conversion losses, making BEVs more efficient in direct electricity usage.
Future of Hydrogen-Electric Vehicles
Automakers are actively researching ways to improve hydrogen-electric technology, including hybrid fuel cell systems that integrate battery storage for optimized energy use. As hydrogen infrastructure expands and production costs decrease, these vehicles could become a mainstream alternative to both gasoline and battery-electric cars.