Life Cycle Assessment Based on Whole Industry Chain Assessment of FCEVs

Renzhi Lyu, Zhenpo Wang () and Zhaosheng Zhang
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Renzhi Lyu: School of Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
Zhenpo Wang: School of Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
Zhaosheng Zhang: School of Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 12, 1-23

Abstract: Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) offer a promising solution for energy saving and emission reduction in transportation. However, several challenges must be addressed for their application. This study conducts a full life cycle assessment (LCA) of FCEVs, dividing it into the fuel cycle and vehicle cycle to separately assess energy consumption (EC) and emissions. The fuel cycle examined 18 hydrogen production–storage–transport pathways, while the vehicle cycle evaluates energy use and emissions associated with vehicle component production, assembly, disposal, battery production, and fluid consumption. Based on the GREET database, total energy consumption and emissions over a lifetime were calculated. Five environmental impact indicators were used for evaluation, and a comprehensive environmental assessment (CEA) indicator was established for different scenarios. Results indicate that nuclear thermochemical water splitting is the best hydrogen production method, and pipeline transportation is the most efficient for hydrogen transport. Additionally, water electrolysis for hydrogen production is only practical when paired with renewable energy. The study also identified that the Hydrogen production method, “Body”, “Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) System”, “Chassis”, “Hydrogen Storage System” and lifetime significantly impact energy consumption and emissions. These stages or products represent high-impact leverage points for enhancing the lifecycle sustainability evaluation of FCEVs.

Keywords: hydrogen fuel cell vehicles; life cycle assessment; hydrogen energy; full supply chain (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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