Hydrogen is very important for climate-neutral mobility

“Hydrogen plays an important role in the mobility of the future. Especially in times of crisis it is important to set the course for future technologies. The international motor vehicle manufacturers therefore welcome the adoption of the National Hydrogen Strategy by the Federal Cabinet, in which Germany sets clear goals for the establishment of a hydrogen economy,” said Reinhard Zirpel, President of the Association of International Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (VDIK).

In addition to the passenger car segment, hydrogen from renewable energy sources has enormous potential as a fuel, especially in the transport and heavy-duty sector. The international manufacturers are technology leaders in the field of hydrogen engines. They have been developing fuel cell engines for passenger cars and commercial vehicles for years. Thus, fuel cell vehicles ready for series production in Germany are currently only available from international manufacturers. VDIK member companies have a market share of 100 percent of new vehicle registrations with this technology.

Zirpel emphasized that a show of strength is required to achieve the climate targets in the transport sector: “Despite the challenge posed by the corona virus, we are keeping a close eye on the goal of helping alternative drive systems achieve a breakthrough open to technology. In addition to battery electromobility, fuel cell drives are indispensable for this. Germany has been waiting a long time before resolutely pushing ahead with hydrogen. Therefore, even more speed is needed now.” Zirpel nevertheless emphasized that Germany has already made good progress in establishing a hydrogen filling station infrastructure. By 2021 a network of H2 filling stations for 60,000 fuel cell cars and 500 commercial vehicles is to be created. The consistent further expansion of the H2 infrastructure for cars, buses and heavy vehicles is indispensable.