Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles (HFCVs) may not be as popular as electric vehicles (EVs). Still, they are another type of zero-emissions transportation, releasing only water vapor instead of carbon dioxide.
Like EVs, hydrogen cars are environmentally friendly alternatives to fossil fuel-powered vehicles, but they differ significantly in availability, infrastructure, and adoption.
Since 2015, three major automakers have introduced hydrogen-powered models: the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell, the Hyundai Nexo SUV, and the Toyota Mirai. Among them, Toyota has shown the strongest commitment, having sold approximately 14,000 units of the Mirai sedan to date.
Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles vs. electric vehicles
HFCVs operate using fuel cells that convert hydrogen gas into electricity, which powers an electric motor. This electrochemical process combines high-pressure hydrogen with oxygen in the fuel cell, generating electricity and emitting only water vapor.
Due to their complex system, hydrogen cars are often compared to mobile power plants. One of their main advantages is range—HFCVs can travel up to 400 miles (644 km) on a single tank of hydrogen.
Refueling is also convenient. HFCV drivers refill their tanks at hydrogen stations in a process similar to gasoline stations, usually within minutes. Beyond passenger cars, hydrogen injection engines are being developed internationally for heavy-duty transport and construction.
By contrast, EVs run on large lithium-ion batteries that store electricity from the grid. Instead of refueling, EV owners must recharge their vehicles at home or at public charging stations, a process that can take significantly longer.
Pros and Cons of EVs and HFCVs
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
- Pros: Expanding charging infrastructure, quiet operation, lower upfront cost, and fewer moving parts, leading to reduced maintenance.
- Cons: Limited driving range, long charging times, battery lifespan concerns, and environmental issues related to battery disposal.
Hydrogen technology in the Philippines
Hydrogen fuel-cell technology is still in its early stages in the Philippines, but it offers significant promise in helping the nation transition to cleaner energy. With a population of over 115 million and an energy mix still dominated by fossil fuels (about 67%), hydrogen adoption—particularly when paired with renewables—could support the Philippines’ net-zero goals.
A breakthrough came with the discovery of a high-volume natural hydrogen seep in Zambales. The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute reported a natural hydrogen flow of more than 800 tonnes annually at the Nagsasa site—the most significant natural hydrogen flux ever recorded.
Researchers believe an even larger underground reservoir may exist, potentially unlocking a new domestic energy source.
To accelerate progress, the Philippine government has partnered with Hydrogène de France (HDF Energy), a global leader in hydrogen infrastructure. In April 2025, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and HDF Energy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), witnessed by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), to construct up to 15 hydrogen power plants across the country with a planned investment of USD 1.5 billion.
The first pilot plant in Mindanao is expected to supply clean electricity to the regional grid while also producing green hydrogen for maritime and railway transport.
Local innovations in hydrogen
Philippine-based automotive manufacturer Francisco Motors has introduced a hydrogen fuel cell-powered tricycle, showcasing sustainable urban mobility solutions.
The company also developed a patented portable electrolyzer that generates green hydrogen from heavy water using a single solar panel.
The device includes a built-in water filtration system, stores hydrogen fuel in proprietary canisters, and produces hospital-grade oxygen as a by-product.
These local innovations, combined with the natural hydrogen seep in Zambales, highlight the Philippines’ strong potential in hydrogen energy. The country’s numerous ophiolite rock formations—iron-rich sections of oceanic crust uplifted to the surface—can produce hydrogen through natural chemical reactions. This unique geology suggests the possibility of additional untapped hydrogen sources nationwide.
Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles provide a promising alternative to EVs in the global push for decarbonization.
In the Philippines, breakthroughs such as the Zambales hydrogen seep, international partnerships, and homegrown innovations in hydrogen mobility could position the country as a leader in Southeast Asia’s clean energy transition.
Sources:
Aquino, K. A., Perez, A. D., Juego, C. M. M., Tagle, Y. G. M., Leong, J. A. M., & Codillo, E. A. (2025). High hydrogen outgassing from an ophiolite-hosted seep in Zambales, Philippines. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 105, 360-366. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhydene.2025.01.251
Natural Hydrogen Discovery in the Philippines Could Revolutionize Clean Energy. (2025, February 1). Daily Sun Chronicle. Retrieved from https://dailysunchronicle.com/natural-hydrogen-discovery-in-the-philippines-could-revolutionize-clean-energy/
HDF Energy and Philippines Government Forge Partnership to Develop Hydrogen Technologies and Infrastructure in the Philippines. (2025, April 23). FCW. Retrieved from https://fuelcellsworks.com/2025/04/23/fuel-cells/hdf-energy-and-philippines-government-forge-partnership-to-develop-hydrogen-technologies-and-infrastructure-in-the-philippines
Joshi, D. (2024, March 21). Hydrogen vs Electric Cars: Which is Better for the Future? Retrieved from https://bacancysystems.com/blog/hydrogen-vs-electric-cars
PHOTO CREDIT: Hydrogen-Fuelled Tricycle prototype by Elmer Francisco. Used with permission. Thank you!
Leave a Reply