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UK Set to Supply Hydrogen Fuel Stations
Reading time 5 minutes
Categories Driving News » Electric Vehicles (EVs) »
We are hiring! Are you an experienced technician? Join our outstanding team »
UK Set to Supply Hydrogen Fuel Stations
Reading time 5 minutes
Categories Driving News » Electric Vehicles (EVs) »
As vehicle manufacturers and governments continue to search for ways to make driving more sustainable and environmentally friendly, the UK has announced a first-of-its-kind trial to supply hydrogen fuel stations across the country.
The likes of Toyota and BMW have led the way in developing hydrogen fuel-cell powertrains, and the new trial aims to see whether the existing gas grid in the UK will also be able to provide hydrogen.
In this article, The Windscreen Company will explore the latest plans and consider what impact hydrogen fuel may have on the industry as a whole.
Before we delve into the details of the new trial, let’s first look at what hydrogen fuel actually is.
Hydrogen fuel is fuel that is created through the process of burning hydrogen with pure oxygen. It is carbon-free and a natural resource that is available in abundance throughout the world, meaning it’s far more eco-friendly.
A hydrogen car uses a fuel tank that has hydrogen pumped into it and it’s then stored at a very high pressure. Inside this tank, the hydrogen is then mixed with oxygen to create the fuel to power the vehicle.
Both hydrogen and electric cars are more environmentally friendly options compared to traditional petrol and diesel vehicles.
But while many people are aware of electric cars and what needs to be considered before purchasing one, there is less public awareness of hydrogen vehicles.
Like with any major purchase, there is a lot to think about before buying a hydrogen car. First and foremost, how to fuel them.
Well, while electric cars can take many hours to charge to full capacity, hydrogen cars can be refuelled far quicker. This is because they’re filled up using a pump in much the same way that petrol and diesel cars are.
However, there is a current lack of infrastructure for hydrogen fuel. In fact, there are currently only 15 hydrogen filling stations in the UK.
Hydrogen cars are more efficient than petrol and diesel cars, but EVs are by far the most efficient option. This is because they’re able to convert 80% of the electricity in their battery into energy, whereas hydrogen vehicles can only convert around 40%.
But, hydrogen cars do outperform EVs in range.
When fully fueled, hydrogen cars can travel about 400 miles before they need to be refuelled – this is far further than their electric counterpart.
When you consider that the main reason people will likely transition from traditional fuel vehicles to electric or hydrogen is for environmental reasons, it makes sense to look at which type performs better in this regard.
As mentioned above, hydrogen is a natural resource and vehicles that are powered by it do not produce any harmful exhaust emissions. In fact, the only substance that is emitted by hydrogen-fuelled cars is water.
However, while producing hydrogen via natural means is not harmful to the environment at all, often when it’s created on an industrial scale and where large quantities are needed, renewable sources are not used. Instead, huge amounts of fossil fuels are needed, which is harmful for the planet.
So, while green in terms of emissions, it can be another story in the manufacturing process. Usually, electricity production is cleaner than hydrogen, and therefore better for the environment, because of this.
As already highlighted, the current infrastructure for hydrogen fuel is insufficient, with only 15 plants in the country offering the fuel.
If hydrogen cars are to become a viable option for motorists, this is clearly going to have to change.
This is what the new trial is hoping to achieve. By using the current gas grid, it’s hoped this will save money and boost the UK’s hydrogen network.
Currently, the National Transmission System (NTS) provides natural gas to the majority of the country and it’s been noted that it can suitably transport hydrogen through the existing pipelines. This means that hydrogen fuel could be easily moved to multiple locations throughout the UK, and therefore be provided as a fuel option for drivers.
If the trial proves successful, it will solve a big logistical issue, as the alternative is to drive hydrogen in fuel trucks to the relevant locations.
At The Windscreen Company, we’re experienced in providing windscreen services to vehicles of every type. This includes offering a leading electric and hybrid car windscreen replacement or repairs service that can restore your windscreen to its former glory and keep you safe when out on the road. Operating across the West Midlands and the South East, get in touch with our expert team today.
The Windscreen Company, has over 20 years of experience in windscreen repair and replacement. Since 1998, they have been at the forefront of industry innovation, leveraging the latest technology to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.
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