Opportunities and sustainability challenges of hydrogen as a fuel in the transportation sector: A review

Mahmoud Elgendi, Jeongmoo Huh, Manigandan Sekar, Montaser Mahmoud, Mohammad Ali Abdelkareem and Abdul Ghani Olabi

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2025, vol. 217, issue C

Abstract: This review examines hydrogen's viability as a sustainable fuel for the automotive and aviation sectors and outlines the essential steps required to overcome existing barriers. With its high energy density and environmentally friendly by-products, hydrogen emerges as a viable alternative to fossil fuels. The paper examines key hydrogen generation methods, such as electrolysis and biological processes, and identifies critical challenges, including storage limitations, safety concerns, and insufficient refueling infrastructure. While hydrogen offers significant advantages, including lowering greenhouse gases and enhancing air quality, its large-scale adoption is constrained by technical and economic hurdles. This review emphasizes the necessity for continued research and development to enhance hydrogen generation efficiency and storage techniques. Additionally, it highlights the pivotal role of policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers in driving innovation and establishing supportive frameworks, such as subsidies, incentives, and regulations, to accelerate the integration of hydrogen technologies. By overcoming these obstacles and promoting collaboration, hydrogen could play an even more transformative role in achieving a sustainable transportation industry.

Keywords: Hydrogen; Fuel; Transportation; Automotive; Aviation; Challenges (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2025.115705

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