Traditional Fuel vs. Electric vs. Hydrogen Vehicles: Cost, Pollution Levels & Market Share in India (2024)

As the automotive industry evolves, the debate between traditional fuel, electric, and hydrogen vehicles is heating up. Each has its own advantages, costs, and environmental impact. Here’s a breakdown of the current scenario in India

1. Cost Analysis:

Traditional Fuel Vehicles:

• Higher running and maintenance costs.
• Average fuel cost per kilometer: ₹7–9.

Electric Vehicles (EVs):

• Higher initial purchase cost, but lower operational expenses.
• Charging cost per kilometer: ₹1.5–3 (depending on electricity tariffs).
• Maintenance costs are 50% lower than traditional vehicles due to fewer moving parts.

Hydrogen Vehicles:

• The most expensive option in terms of fuel cost and production.
• Cost per kilogram of hydrogen: ₹800–900, making it roughly 3 times more costly per kilometer compared to EVs and traditional vehicles.

2. Pollution Levels:

Traditional Fuel Vehicles:

• Emit a significant amount of CO2, NOx, and particulate matter.
• Contribute to approximately 15% of India’s total carbon emissions.

Electric Vehicles (EVs):

• No tailpipe emissions, but the carbon footprint depends on the source of electricity (coal vs. renewable).
• Battery production is resource-intensive, though advancements in recycling and technology are reducing this impact.

Hydrogen Vehicles:

• The cleanest option if produced using renewable energy (Green Hydrogen).
• Emissions: Only water vapor as the byproduct, but if produced from natural gas, CO2 emissions are still significant.

3. Market Share in India (as of August 2024):

• Traditional Vehicles: 87% of the market.
• Electric Vehicles: 11% of the market, seeing rapid growth due to government incentives and improved infrastructure.
• Hydrogen Vehicles: Less than 2%, primarily in the commercial and heavy transport sectors.

India’s automotive future will likely see a mix of these technologies, but EVs are currently leading the charge in urban areas, while hydrogen shows potential in long-haul and commercial transport.

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