Development and comparative analysis between battery electric vehicles (BEV) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV)

Hussein Togun, Ali Basem, Tuqa Abdulrazzaq, Nirmalendu Biswas, Azher M. Abed, Jameel M. Dhabab, Anirban Chattopadhyay, Khalifa Slimi, Dipankar Paul, Praveen Barmavatu and Amani Chrouda

Applied Energy, 2025, vol. 388, issue C, No S0306261925004568

Abstract: The global push for cleaner transportation has led to significant developments in sustainable vehicle technologies, specifically Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs). This review presents a thorough examination of the progress, energy efficiency, environmental impacts, and the challenges associated with both vehicle types. BEVs, powered by lithium-ion batteries, have experienced remarkable advancements due to improvements in energy density, reduced costs, and the expansion of charging networks. In contrast, FCEVs, which generate electricity using hydrogen fuel cells, provide the advantage of rapid refueling and extended driving range but are constrained by the high costs of hydrogen production and limited refueling infrastructure. The review compares the energy efficiency of both technologies, noting that BEVs convert 70–90 % of stored electricity into motion, while FCEVs face higher energy losses due to the hydrogen production and conversion process. The paper also addresses the full lifecycle environmental impact of both technologies. Although both BEVs and FCEVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, their overall sustainability depends largely on how their energy—whether electricity or hydrogen—is sourced. BEVs are supported by the increasing shift toward electrification, with falling battery prices and more extensive infrastructure making them the leading option in sustainable transportation. Meanwhile, FCEVs, though better suited for long-range and heavy-duty use, continue to struggle with high production costs and a lack of necessary infrastructure. While BEVs currently dominate due to their higher energy efficiency, lower costs, and growing infrastructure, FCEVs remain a promising solution for specific applications that require fast refueling and long-range capabilities. Future innovations in hydrogen production and fuel cell technology, along with infrastructure expansion, could establish FCEVs as a vital complement to BEVs in the transition to zero-emission transport.

Keywords: Battery electric vehicles; Fuel cell; Hydrogen production; Energy efficiency (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2025.125726

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