Since the Toyota Mirai isn't out just yet, this was an interesting look into how practical fuel cell vehicles are to people who have driven them. In this case, a Hyundai Tucson fuel cell vehicle. Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell: Early Drivers Discuss Experiences Traveling On Hydrogen Without quoting the entire article, here's some key takeaways: - Fueling up took an average of closer to 10 minutes. Though he lived near three stations, he often filled up while still having 1/2 or 3/4 of a tank due to the unreliability of filling stations at times. - He liked driving an SUV such as high seating position and room for trips, though lamented its weak highway performance. - Liked the quiet driving FCV offered, said he probably wouldn't go back to a gas car again. - Wouldn't buy an FCV right now, but sees their potential in future generations. So, what are your thoughts?
Hydrogen Fool Cells - hydrogen is the intractable problem. On-car hydrogen formation makes sense because the carrier can be much denser than H{2} and easily handled: CH{4}, CH{3}OH, NH{3} (my favorite). In-car efficiency, ~60%, is poor. Better than engine-only cars. Batteries - existing technology already exceeds 200 miles. The 'funny' 80 mile range of affordable ones suggests an external forcing function. Recharging overnight is easily understood. Home-to-car-to-home is an obvious enhancement. Battery chemistries continue to expand If it weren't for the high-pressure storage of hydrogen gas, I would be more positive. Hydrogen gas is a terrible battery fuel making sense in a few, extreme applications. In contrast, battery chemistries have yet to reach a hard limit. IMHO, primary cells, especially air-metal, offer good range potential and use of benign materials compared to hydrogen. Bob Wilson
agreed, it's foolish to make this about the auto or driving experience. that's where auto writers get it wrong.
With the (theoretical potential non-lease) cost of the hydrogen car - desire to want to avoid not being able to fill-up on long journeys far away from home, wanting more power, willing to pay & afford a $75,000 vehicle, and not wanting to go back to ICE, it sounds like their next ride will be a Model S Tesla. .
