With dwindling passenger car sales for hydrogen fuel cells, the technology is now looking like a non-starter for heavy-duty trucks as well.
The article by James Morris for Forbes, published on February 8, 2025, discusses the diminishing prospects of hydrogen fuel cell technology in the automotive industry, particularly for trucks. Despite initial enthusiasm, hydrogen has not gained significant traction in passenger cars due to issues like high costs, infrastructure challenges, and efficiency concerns compared to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The piece highlights that while hydrogen fuel cells were once seen as a promising alternative for heavy-duty trucks due to their range and refueling speed, the industry is now shifting towards battery electric trucks. This shift is driven by advancements in battery technology, the development of charging infrastructure, and the realization that hydrogen's energy conversion process is less efficient. The article also notes that major truck manufacturers are increasingly investing in BEVs, suggesting that hydrogen's role in future transportation might be limited to niche applications rather than widespread adoption.