Most hydrogen fuel cell cars available today have a driving range of approximately 400 to 600 kilometers (about 250 to 370 miles) on a full tank of hydrogen. This range is competitive with, and often exceeds, that of many battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and is a key advantage of the technology. The exact distance depends on the vehicle model, driving conditions, and driving style.
The driving range is primarily determined by the capacity of the onboard hydrogen storage tanks and the efficiency of the fuel cell system, which converts hydrogen into electricity to power the motor. Unlike battery EVs that can be charged at home, hydrogen cars are refueled at specialized stations in a process that takes just 3-5 minutes, similar to gasoline cars.
Here is a comparison of the official ranges for some current and recent hydrogen models:
| Vehicle Model | Estimated Driving Range (km) | Estimated Driving Range (miles) |
|---|
| Toyota Mirai (2nd Gen) | ~650 km | ~400 miles |
| Hyundai Nexo | ~600 km | ~380 miles |
| Honda Clarity Fuel Cell | ~590 km | ~360 miles |
| Hyundai ix35 FCEV | ~425 km | ~265 miles |
| Toyota Mirai (1st Gen) | ~480 km | ~300 miles |
It's important to understand that real-world range can vary. Driving habits like rapid acceleration and high-speed cruising can decrease efficiency. Weather also plays a significant role; cold temperatures can reduce range because energy is needed to heat the cabin, similar to electric cars. The availability of hydrogen refueling infrastructure is the main practical limitation for most drivers, as stations are currently concentrated in specific regions like California.
