Developing countries are increasing the demand for fossil fuels. Conventional fuels are limited and eventually they will not be able to meet the world's increasing energy demands. Automotive transportation is a primary area where this demand must be addressed. Hydrogen vehicles are being developed as an alternative to standard automobiles to deal with this issue.
Standard Vehicles
Gasoline vehicles use internal combustion engines that are a part of a vast infrastructure that fuels, repairs and regulates the use of these automobiles. These vehicles are affordable and it is relatively inexpensive to produce fuel for these vehicles.
Hydrogen
Hydrogen vehicles will reduce the U.S. dependence on imported fuel. These vehicles are currently being designed to be environmentally friendly, economically viable, and once the infrastructure is in place the fuel is expected to be produced and distributed locally.
Environment
Gasoline-based automobiles produce atmospheric emissions that are considered harmful to the environment. Hydrogen produces byproducts that come in the form of heat and water.
Fuel Efficiency
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses a computer to determine the average fuel economy of cars and light trucks. The EPA has determined that the average gasoline-powered passenger car gets 23.9 mpg and light trucks get 17.4 mpg. Hydrogen vehicles average 24-34 mpg, depending on the type of engine.
Cost
According to the National Hydrogen Association, hydrogen would cost $2.10 per gallon of gasoline equivalent (gge) to produce and deliver to fueling stations. Also, future estimates for a gallon of hydrogen would be $1.75/gge to $4.25/gge. Gasoline is considerably higher at $9.10/gge.
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