As the benefits of hydrogen-powered vehicles for personal use continue to become more apparent, the number of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) on the market is set to rise exponentially in the coming years.
Currently there are just six FCEV models in production, including the Hyundai Nexo, Toyota Mirai and Honda Clarity. But based on our market research, NPROXX believes that number will rise to 31 separate car models on the market by 2025, with all the big names of the motoring world rushing to develop new models or adapt existing favourites to run on a hybrid of hydrogen fuel cell power and electricity.
Hydrogen as a fuel is well suited to long distances, and these new models are expected to boast ranges that exceed their oil-fuelled predecessors. As a result, the range of models being developed stretches from new mid-range saloons being developed by the likes of Toyota, Honda and Mercedes to hydrogen fuelled adaptations of existing SUV models from the likes of BMW and Audi.
Why Hydrogen?
With the reduction of city centre pollution an increasingly compelling issue, the allure of an emission-free mode of transport is particularly attractive to the urban market. While battery power is certainly part of the future energy mix, FCEV vehicles running on hydrogen produce only water as a by-product. As hydrogen offers a higher energy-density-to-weight ratio than batteries it offers attractive solutions for heavier and longer- range transport needs.
One potential limitation to the mass adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles is the scarcity of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. But this is changing fast. In Germany for instance, there are already over 100 hydrogen refuelling stations, and a new one opens every two weeks. Other developed countries are also waking up to the potential of this need.
Why choose NPROXX?
NPROXX is a global leader in designing, developing and manufacturing Type 4 pressure vessels for the storage of hydrogen under high pressure. We are already working with several leading automotive manufacturers to design and develop hydrogen storage solutions that can be integrated into the designs of new and adapted passenger vehicles. We are also delivering hydrogen storage solutions for stationary applications (refuelling stations). If you would like to know more about NPROXX’s capabilities please contact Johannes Lorenz.