CES 2024 has thrust hydrogen (H2) fuel back into the limelight, challenging the narrative that electric vehicles (EVs) had taken an insurmountable lead in the emission-free car market.
While EVs undeniably dominate discussions, the annual Las Vegas event showcased that H2-powered cars are far from forgotten and continue to be a key focus for automakers.
Hyundai, a prominent player in the automotive industry, utilized CES 2024 as a platform to highlight its commitment to hydrogen fuel. The company unveiled comprehensive plans for utilizing H2 as clean energy to power fuel cells. This strategic move signals Hyundai’s dedication to fostering a “hydrogen society,” encompassing energy production, storage, and transport.
José Muñoz, Hyundai Motor Co.’s resident and global chief operating officer, emphasized the technological feasibility of their plans. He underscored that not only is the adoption of hydrogen fuel technologically viable, but it also aligns with economic sensibility, indicating that investing in this direction will yield dividends in the years to come.
Bosch, a major player in automotive technology, also made waves at CES 2024 by unveiling its ambitious plan to launch its first hydrogen (H2) combustion engine before the year’s end. This strategic move by Bosch Mobility is positioned as a pivotal step in reducing carbon emissions from human-made sources. Notably, this departure from the predominant focus on fuel cell technology in the hydrogen automotive sector intrigued event attendees.
While H2 combustion engines are recognized as low-carbon rather than emission-free, they present a notable reduction in pollution compared to even the most efficient fossil fuel-powered vehicles currently on the roads.
Both Hyundai and Bosch have expressed that their accelerated efforts in the H2 space are propelled by strategic investments and financial incentives. Notably, the US government’s substantial $7 billion funding for H2 infrastructure development has played a significant role in steering these automotive giants toward a rejuvenated future in hydrogen.
CES 2024 has unequivocally signaled that hydrogen fuel is not fading into the background. While electric vehicles continue to lead the passenger vehicle segment, the resurgence of interest in hydrogen at the event underscores that automakers perceive it as a crucial component in the collective journey toward decarbonization. The automotive landscape is witnessing a dynamic interplay between batteries and hydrogen, with CES 2024 reshaping perceptions and rekindling enthusiasm for H2-powered vehicles.
