Hydrogen plays an important role in shaping a climate-friendly life. We have to do without oil, coal and gas so that our planet does not continue to heat up. And hydrogen can be a good substitute for these three in some areas. For example, in the steel industry, to power our vehicles and even to heat our homes. An important advantage is that hydrogen produces no waste in the generation of electricity - apart from water and heat.

How does a hydrogen car work?

Hydrogen can be used as a means of propulsion in vehicles. Hydrogen cars work in the same way as electric vehicles. While electric cars are powered by a battery that is recharged with electricity, hydrogen cars are powered by a fuel cell and a hydrogen tank.

Fuel cell explained simply
In a fuel cell, chemical energy from hydrogen and 
oxygen is converted into electrical energy (electricity). It is an 
energy converter.

The electrical energy generated by the fuel cell drives the electric motor. In contrast to conventional cars, only water vapor comes out of the exhaust and no harmful exhaust fumes.

How do I fill up the car?

The hydrogen that has to be refueled is gaseous. Refueling takes several minutes. One tank lasts about 500 km and costs around 50 euros.

Do hydrogen cars produce exhaust fumes?

No, water vapor and heat come out of the exhaust.

However, exhaust gases are produced during the production of hydrogen:

Today, the majority of hydrogen (98%) is obtained from hydrocarbons - from coal, natural gas and crude oil. This produces emissions, which are toxic substances that are harmful to the environment and health. (Note: This hydrogen is called gray hydrogen)

It is therefore very important that only more renewable energy sources (such as wind and solar energy) are used for production, as this produces hardly any emissions, which is better for us humans and the environment. (Note: this hydrogen is called green hydrogen).

Explanation
Green hydrogen is produced by the electrolysis (i.e. chemical 
conversion) of water. Electricity from renewable 
energy sources such as wind and solar energy is used for this and is therefore 
CO₂-free.

Do hydrogen vehicles already exist?

Yes, some car manufacturers have already developed vehicles. Hyundai produces an SUV with fuel cells as standard and Toyota also has a model on offer. In terms of trucks, Hyundai has introduced the Xcient Fuel Cell truck, for example, a hydrogen truck for heavy-duty transport with a range of 400 km thanks to a 72 kWh battery and 31 kg of hydrogen.

Where do you refuel the car?

In Germany, this development is already more advanced than in other countries. There are around 100 public hydrogen filling stations throughout the country. In neighboring countries, however, this area is less well developed, so that traveling with hydrogen cars is still difficult at the moment. There are currently four such filling stations in Austria, namely in Vienna-Floridsdorf, in Asten near Linz, in Innsbruck and Graz-Liebenau.