The auto industry is undergoing a revolution toward zero-emission technology,* according to an analyst briefing published today by the respected consultancy GlobalData.** In Asia, Japan and South Korea are leading the race for supremacy in hydrogen-powered vehicles.
“This rivalry is more than a market battle – it’s a bid for energy independence and environmental sustainability. FCEVs (fuel cell electric vehicles) offer several advantages over traditional fossil-fuel vehicles and even BEVs (battery electric vehicles), such as longer range and faster refueling, making them a potentially transformative solution, especially for long-haul and heavy-duty applications,” GlobalData said.
However, hydrogen faces obstacles such as high production costs, limited infrastructure, and energy loss during hydrogen production. Japan and South Korea are working to overcome these barriers through significant investments and government support.
Toyota’s Pioneering Vision**
“Japan was one of the earliest adopters of hydrogen technology. Toyota, the nation’s leading automotive giant, introduced the Mirai in 2014, making it one of the world’s first mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Toyota has doubled down on its hydrogen vehicle research, investing billions in fuel cell technology for passenger and commercial vehicles.
“Toyota is also exploring hydrogen applications beyond fuel cells, such as hydrogen combustion engines, exemplified by the Corolla Cross H2 Concept, which provides a familiar driving experience with reduced emissions. At the Japan Mobility Show in October 2024, Toyota unveiled a compact, portable hydrogen tank system that simplifies refueling, signaling the potential for more compact and efficient hydrogen vehicles, GlobalData said.
Along with Toyota, other Japanese automakers such as Honda, have also entered the hydrogen market. Although Honda previously offered the Honda Clarity FCEV, which was discontinued in 2021, the company is now revitalizing its hydrogen strategy. Partnering with General Motors, Honda is focused on developing cutting-edge fuel cell systems and new FCEV models, including the recently launched CR-V e: FCEV for the U.S. and Japanese markets, reaffirming its dedication to hydrogen technology.
Japan has also placed significant emphasis on building hydrogen infrastructure. Supported by government policies and subsidies, Japan has prioritized expanding its hydrogen infrastructure, aiming to establish 1,000 refueling stations and increase hydrogen supply to three million tons per year by 2030.
*AutoInformed on
**GlobalData
GlobalData says that “4000 of the world’s largest companies, including over 70% of FTSE 100 and 60% of Fortune 100 companies, make more timely and better business decisions thanks to GlobalData’s unique data, expert analysis and innovative solutions, all in one platform. GlobalData’s mission is to help our clients decode the future to be more successful and innovative across a range of industries, including the healthcare, consumer, retail, financial, technology and professional services sectors.” J.D. Power is also part of GlobalData. Inquiries at: customersuccess.automotive@globaldata.com
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles – Japan vs Korea
The auto industry is undergoing a revolution toward zero-emission technology,* according to an analyst briefing published today by the respected consultancy GlobalData.** In Asia, Japan and South Korea are leading the race for supremacy in hydrogen-powered vehicles.
“This rivalry is more than a market battle – it’s a bid for energy independence and environmental sustainability. FCEVs (fuel cell electric vehicles) offer several advantages over traditional fossil-fuel vehicles and even BEVs (battery electric vehicles), such as longer range and faster refueling, making them a potentially transformative solution, especially for long-haul and heavy-duty applications,” GlobalData said.
However, hydrogen faces obstacles such as high production costs, limited infrastructure, and energy loss during hydrogen production. Japan and South Korea are working to overcome these barriers through significant investments and government support.
Toyota’s Pioneering Vision**
“Japan was one of the earliest adopters of hydrogen technology. Toyota, the nation’s leading automotive giant, introduced the Mirai in 2014, making it one of the world’s first mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Toyota has doubled down on its hydrogen vehicle research, investing billions in fuel cell technology for passenger and commercial vehicles.
“Toyota is also exploring hydrogen applications beyond fuel cells, such as hydrogen combustion engines, exemplified by the Corolla Cross H2 Concept, which provides a familiar driving experience with reduced emissions. At the Japan Mobility Show in October 2024, Toyota unveiled a compact, portable hydrogen tank system that simplifies refueling, signaling the potential for more compact and efficient hydrogen vehicles, GlobalData said.
Along with Toyota, other Japanese automakers such as Honda, have also entered the hydrogen market. Although Honda previously offered the Honda Clarity FCEV, which was discontinued in 2021, the company is now revitalizing its hydrogen strategy. Partnering with General Motors, Honda is focused on developing cutting-edge fuel cell systems and new FCEV models, including the recently launched CR-V e: FCEV for the U.S. and Japanese markets, reaffirming its dedication to hydrogen technology.
Japan has also placed significant emphasis on building hydrogen infrastructure. Supported by government policies and subsidies, Japan has prioritized expanding its hydrogen infrastructure, aiming to establish 1,000 refueling stations and increase hydrogen supply to three million tons per year by 2030.
*AutoInformed on
**GlobalData
GlobalData says that “4000 of the world’s largest companies, including over 70% of FTSE 100 and 60% of Fortune 100 companies, make more timely and better business decisions thanks to GlobalData’s unique data, expert analysis and innovative solutions, all in one platform. GlobalData’s mission is to help our clients decode the future to be more successful and innovative across a range of industries, including the healthcare, consumer, retail, financial, technology and professional services sectors.” J.D. Power is also part of GlobalData. Inquiries at: customersuccess.automotive@globaldata.com