Electric cars are gaining popularity, but they aren’t the only zero-emission vehicles on the market. For those seeking an alternative, Hydrogen Cars For Sale offer a compelling option. These vehicles, technically known as hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs), produce only water vapor as emissions, just like EVs. They also share the smooth and quiet driving experience of electric cars, moving beyond the era of burning hydrogen in internal combustion engines. However, hydrogen cars boast a significant advantage in driving range and refueling speed compared to many EVs. The major hurdle currently is the limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure, which is still in its early stages of development. Finding a hydrogen station can be a challenge depending on your location.
Despite the infrastructure limitations, many in the automotive industry believe that hydrogen technology and its supporting network will expand significantly in the coming years. For those interested in exploring this technology today, here are the hydrogen cars for sale in the United States in 2020.
Hyundai Nexo: The Hydrogen SUV
The Hyundai Nexo represents a significant step forward for hydrogen cars and for Hyundai’s commitment to alternative fuels. It’s not just a technological showcase; it’s also the first hydrogen fuel cell vehicle to undergo and ace the rigorous crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. This safety accolade is a strong endorsement for Hyundai and the safety of hydrogen car technology in general.
The Nexo stands out as the only hydrogen-powered SUV currently available. It offers the space and practicality expected of an SUV, while also providing a unique feature: the ability to generate electricity while idling. This capability can be invaluable during power outages or emergencies. Hyundai has highlighted the Nexo’s potential to power various household appliances, offering a level of energy independence beyond just transportation. While it might not power an entire home indefinitely, it can certainly provide essential electricity for critical devices and comfort.
Priced starting at $58,300, the Hyundai Nexo delivers 161 horsepower and an impressive range of 380 miles. It’s available in two trim levels, but its availability is currently limited to California, where buyers can benefit from a $7,000 rebate, making hydrogen cars for sale more accessible in this region.
Toyota Mirai: Futuristic Design Meets Fuel Cell Technology
The 2020 Toyota Mirai makes a bold styling statement, whether you find it appealing or not. Beneath its distinctive exterior lies an advanced 151-horsepower hydrogen drivetrain. This system comprises two hydrogen storage tanks, a fuel cell stack, and an electric motor that powers the front wheels. Refueling the Mirai is remarkably quick, taking just about five minutes, according to Toyota.
The Mirai offers a driving range of 312 miles. To further incentivize adoption, Toyota includes three years or $15,000 worth of free hydrogen fuel with each purchase. The starting price is $58,550 before any incentives. Similar to the Nexo, the Mirai’s availability is restricted to California, and also Hawaii, reflecting the current infrastructure landscape for hydrogen cars for sale.
If the current Mirai’s styling isn’t to your taste, the redesigned next-generation model, which debuted for the 2021 model year, presents a significantly different aesthetic. The new Mirai embraces a more conventional and sleek design, blurring the lines between a family sedan and a sporty grand tourer, potentially expanding the appeal of hydrogen cars for sale to a broader audience.
Honda Clarity Fuel Cell: Hydrogen in a Familiar Form
The Honda Clarity Fuel Cell distinguishes itself as the only hydrogen car for sale that isn’t built on a dedicated, purpose-designed platform. It shares its body and interior with the Clarity hybrid variant, giving it a more familiar and conventional appearance. Digital Trends experienced the Clarity Fuel Cell in daily commuting and found its cabin surprisingly upscale. Features like leather and suede-like upholstery, a power driver’s seat, an 8-inch touchscreen, and navigation with hydrogen station locations contributed to a near-luxury feel. The seats were noted for their comfort, and rear visibility was deemed adequate.
In essence, the Clarity Fuel Cell drives like a refined sedan, but with the unique advantage of hydrogen power instead of gasoline. It comfortably seats five passengers, delivers 174 horsepower, and provides a substantial 360-mile driving range. However, Honda explicitly states that the Clarity Fuel Cell is “only available in California to residents of California living or working in proximity to a hydrogen station,” highlighting the crucial link between infrastructure and the accessibility of hydrogen cars for sale.
