Ohio companies are pushing ahead with investments in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, diverging from the national trend favoring electric vehicles. As these companies look to expand the hydrogen vehicle market, they face the unique challenge of building infrastructure in a state without public hydrogen fueling stations. This effort reflects a growing interest in alternative fuel sources as part of broader automotive advancements. While electric vehicles currently dominate, hydrogen vehicles offer distinct benefits such as faster refueling and better cold weather performance, making them a compelling option for the future.
The history of hydrogen vehicles has largely been centered in California due to supportive state policies and infrastructure development. Although the U.S. has only seen about 18,000 hydrogen fuel cell cars sold, primarily in California, Ohio companies have a long-standing interest in hydrogen technology. The Ohio Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Coalition, established in 2003, highlights the state’s commitment to hydrogen energy development. This foundation contrasts with the current infrastructure challenges in Ohio, where companies aim to establish a stronger presence for hydrogen vehicles.
Made in Ohio
Honda Motors is producing the 2025 CR-V e:FCEV, the first hybrid hydrogen vehicle made in America at its Marysville, Ohio plant. This vehicle combines hydrogen and electric power, providing a flexible range for different driving needs. Dave Perzynski from Honda emphasized the importance of using diverse energy sources. Honda’s ultimate goal is total decarbonization, and they recognize limitations in local power grids as a challenge that hydrogen vehicles can help mitigate.
For now, Honda plans to market these vehicles primarily in California due to existing infrastructure. However, the company relies on partnerships to expand hydrogen fueling stations nationwide. This cooperative approach is seen as essential for the widespread adoption of hydrogen technology.
Building a network
Millennium Reign Energy is developing a membership model to grow the hydrogen infrastructure. The company’s Emerald H2 network aims to assist customers in acquiring used hydrogen vehicles and provide access to fueling stations. As the customer base expands, so will the station capacity, offering a scalable solution to infrastructure challenges.
The company’s CEO, Chris McWhinney, envisions a transcontinental hydrogen highway. Millennium Reign Energy is already operating fueling stations outside the U.S. and plans to launch its first Emerald H2 stations in Ohio by early next year. The stations utilize renewable energy to produce hydrogen, potentially offering a cost-efficient and eco-friendly fuel alternative.
Hurdles ahead
The efficiency of hydrogen vehicles remains a concern. Studies suggest battery-electric vehicles utilize renewable energy more efficiently than fuel cell vehicles. Greg Keoleian from the University of Michigan highlighted the need to optimize the use of limited renewable energy resources. Nonetheless, hydrogen vehicles present a resemblance to traditional fueling practices, potentially appealing to consumers.
Public transit systems in Ohio, like SARTA, have successfully integrated hydrogen buses, pointing to viable use cases. Moreover, the Department of Energy’s hydrogen hubs could indirectly support infrastructure development for passenger vehicles. The future of governmental incentives is uncertain, yet the Ohio companies might find themselves in a favorable position if supportive policies continue.
Considerations remain regarding the potential competition between hydrogen and electric vehicle technologies. Grant Goodrich from Case Western Reserve University discussed the possibility of hydrogen vehicles challenging battery-electric vehicles, especially given hydrogen’s familiar refueling method. Despite advancements in electric vehicle technology, hydrogen may offer a competitive edge as infrastructure expands.
