For all the volatility of a gas like hydrogen, which combusts with one-tenth the energy required for gasoline, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are safer than cars with internal combustion engines, according to industry experts.

At last week’s Los Angeles Auto Show, several major car companies, including Audi, Honda, Hyundai and Toyota, announced the release of, or updated plans to release, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles this year or within the next two years.

Toyota touted a four-passenger fuel cell vehicle (FCV) called the Mirai, which will begin shipping next month. Audi unveiled the A7 Sportback H-Tron Quattro, a modification of its four-door Quattro coupe that, instead of a traditional drive train, features an electric motor powered by a hydrogen fuel cell.

To read this article in full or to leave a comment, please click here