HYDROGEN-POWERED cars are cheaper to run and kinder to the planet, but have so far failed to catch on in Spain – as there has never been anywhere to recharge them.
Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell sedan, currently one of two models of this type - along with the Hyundai Nexo - on sale in Spain (Photo: Forbes)
In fact, only seven brand-new hydrogen cars were registered in Spain the whole of last year – way below expected, even allowing for lockdown and restrictions on movement.
Now, though, the first recharging station for cars with hydrogen batteries has just opened in Madrid, a joint effort between Toyota Spain, Enagás utility board, Urbaser, Carburos Metálicos, Sumitomo Corporation Spain and the Spanish Confederation of Service Station Owners (CEEES).
It is capable of refuelling up to 12 Toyota Mirai hydrogen cars all at once, with each vehicle taking under five minutes to fully charge – a huge advantage over electric cars, which can take 30 minutes to an hour.
Once refuelled, the Toyota Mirai can be driven for 550 kilometres on average at 155cv without needing a top-up.
The charging station would be suitable for other hydrogen-powered cars, but at present, the Toyota Mirai accounts for six of last year's seven newly-manufactured and purchased vehicles of this type – the only other to have been sold was a Hyundai Nexo, and so far, these are the only two hydrogen models on forecourts in Spain.
For all the above reasons, only 6% of drivers surveyed would consider buying a hydrogen car – lack of charging points and the fact that they remain a very expensive option to purchase, even if not to run, are the most off-putting factors.
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