Toyota Hydrogen-Powered Security Fleet Hits Melbourne's Streets, But Are They Better Than EVs?

Jan 30, 2024 09:30 AM EST

Toyota's hydrogen-powered security fleet has made a significant stride towards sustainable mobility and is now a common sight on Melbourne's streets. In the age of electric mobility, the arrival of these cutting-edge vehicles begs the important question: Are hydrogen cars better than electric automobiles?

When Grant Burton, a security guard, patrols Melbourne's streets, his unassuming green and white Toyota sedan seems like any other company car. However, it conceals a unique feature: a hydrogen fuel cell. The car emits only water, providing a solution for YPG Risk's need for quick and efficient refueling to keep their fleet on the road.

While many automotive giants focus on electric vehicles (EVs), Toyota is investing heavily in hydrogen development. Despite the skepticism surrounding hydrogen, Toyota believes in the potential of fuel cell technology. Grant Burton sees the hydrogen-powered vehicles as a game-changer for his security company, addressing the limitations of traditional EVs.

Toyota Hydrogen Car — (Photo : M 93 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 (DE))

YPG Risk faced challenges with traditional EVs during a trial period, where lengthy recharging times hindered quick responses to security incidents. Toyota's hydrogen fuel cell cars, leased by the company, offer a solution. The vehicles can refuel in less than five minutes at Toyota's hydrogen refueling station in Melbourne.

Hydrogen Refueling Infrastructure Challenges

Despite the benefits, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles face slow adoption in Australia. Limited refueling infrastructure, with only a dozen hydrogen stations nationally, poses a challenge. Toyota's Andrew Willis emphasizes the need for more refueling options, echoing Grant Burton's call for government support in expanding the network.

Analysts like Alison Reeve from the Grattan Institute point out the economic challenges for hydrogen cars. The high cost of hydrogen gas, averaging between $7/kg and $16/kg, makes them less economically viable compared to EVs. Reeve suggests that hydrogen prices must drop significantly to around $2/kg to compete with EVs on a cost-per-kilometer basis.

However, hydrogen fuel cell cars has not gained widespread traction in Australia. In 2023, only six hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, all Toyota Mirai accessed through leasing arrangements, were introduced. This pales in comparison to the substantial numbers of over 87,000 new electric vehicles (EVs) and an even higher count of hybrid vehicles in the same period.

Government Perspectives and Future Outlook

While the Australian government acknowledges the advantages of hydrogen cars, it allocates more funds to EV charging infrastructure. Toyota's leasing deal with YPG Risk, at around $25,000 per year per vehicle, demonstrates a niche market for hydrogen vehicles. The federal government sees potential in hydrogen for larger vehicles like trucks, but opinions differ on its viability compared to battery-powered alternatives.

Despite the benefits of hydrogen fuel cell cars, the technology has not gained widespread traction in Australia. In 2023, only six hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, all Toyota Mirais accessed through leasing arrangements, were introduced. This pales in comparison to the substantial numbers of over 87,000 new electric vehicles (EVs) and an even higher count of hybrid vehicles in the same period.

Despite challenges and differing opinions, Toyota remains committed to its multifaceted strategy, anticipating an increase in hydrogen-powered cars on Australian roads by 2030. The company believes there is growing interest from various sectors, including mining and local businesses, signaling continued excitement for the potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Are Hydrogen Cars Better than Electric Cars?

It's debatable and dependent on several variables whether hydrogen-powered vehicles are superior to electric ones. There are benefits to hydrogen cars, like increased driving range, faster recharging, and less harmful emissions.

Nevertheless, they have disadvantages such as exorbitant expenses, ineffectiveness, and inadequate facilities.
Electric vehicles, on the other hand, are thought to be more dependable, and convenient, and have a well-established charging infrastructure. Although their shorter driving range may worry some users, they have become more and more popular because of their reduced running costs and environmental advantages.

As each technology has pros and downsides of its own, the decision between hydrogen and electric vehicles ultimately comes down to personal goals and considerations.