Battery electric vehicles and fuel cell electric vehicles, an analysis of alternative powertrains as a mean to decarbonise the transport sector

There is a debate among members of the scientific community concerning the transition to renewable-energy-operated modes of transportation to reduce carbon emissions and address the impact of climate change. This paper studies the individual strengths and concerns that the adoption of the alternative powertrains of battery electric vehicles and fuel cell electric vehicles possess. The analysis is mostly done from a qualitative point of view that includes the current state of the market, infrastructure, raw-materials mining issues, powertrain cost analysis, energy-efficiency analysis and technology-specific advantages and disadvantages. The study offers an insight into how, despite the differences, both technologies can easily complement each other. The study also addresses briefly the status quo of the internal combustion engine vehicle as a means to offer a wider perspective and contrasting effect on the current situation of alternative powertrains. The conclusions highlight the importance of embracing the strengths of all the different powertrains as an approach to overcome their weaknesses or limitations and leave aside the one-solution-fits-all narrative. Further development of vehicle technologies pushes civilization one step closer to independence from fossil fuels and averting climate change.

Automated summary

The paper examines the strengths and concerns of battery electric vehicles and fuel cell electric vehicles, highlighting their complementary nature. It also briefly touches upon the current state of internal combustion engine vehicles for a broader perspective. The conclusions emphasize the importance of utilizing the strengths of different powertrain systems and rejecting a one-size-fits-all approach.