HYDROGEN VS. BATTERY: CLEAN TRANSPORT COSTS

GS-3: Environment, Energy, Infrastructure

Key Points:

• PM2.5 pollution caused ~30,000 annual deaths in Indian cities (2008-2019).
• Global EV adoption is rising, led by Europe and China.
• Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCVs) are 20-30% costlier than battery EVs, but costs may align by 2030.
• Per km costs: HFC buses ($0.84/km) vs. EV buses ($0.17/km), favoring EVs for mass transit.
• Urban air quality crises drive the shift to low-emission transport.

In-Depth Analysis:

• Public Health: Urbanization worsens air pollution, with PM2.5-linked deaths in cities like Mumbai and Delhi. Clean transport is critical.
• Cost Analysis:
  • Initial Costs: Hydrogen vehicles are pricier than battery EVs, though costs are declining.
  • Operational Costs: EV buses ($0.17/km) are far cheaper than HFC buses ($0.84/km).
• Market Trends:
  • Global EV sales projected at 20 million by 2024; India lags at 0.6 million.
  • Indian cities like Delhi are adopting EV-based public transport.
• Hydrogen Use Cases: Best suited for long-haul, heavy-duty transport due to fast refueling, but infrastructure is limited.

Technical Concepts:

• PM2.5 Pollution: Fine particles causing health issues.
• Battery EVs (BEVs): Vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries.
• Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (HFCVs): Produce electricity from hydrogen, emitting only water.

Importance:

• Battery EVs are currently the most cost-effective clean transport option.
• Hydrogen is promising for long-haul transport but requires technological and policy support.
• India must balance health, cost, and energy needs in its clean transport strategy.