Fuel Cells Versus Lithium-ion Batteries (LIB) in Transportation: A Comprehensive and Comparative Review

Whittier Christian High School, La Habra, 90631, USA

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Abstract

The impacts of modern transportation on climate change have become more and more serious. To offset these impacts, electrification via alternative engines and driving systems has become a concern and a promising method for governments and industries as they implement newer, cleaner technologies. Amongst these new ones, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) have drawn most attention due to the fact that they are the two most promosing alternatives to the traditional internal combustion engines. This essay gives a comparative and in-depth review of hydrogen fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries in transportation technologies. It examines their theoretical principles, energy efficiency, viability of infrastructure, environmental impact, and feasibility in terms of cost. The finding is that BEVs have higher wheel-to-wheel efficiency, lower costs, and a more mature market, making them suitable for use in passenger fleet and urban applications. FCEVs are advantageous in long-distance, heavy-duty, and commercial use since they possess higher energy density and faster refueling time, resulting in higher mobility. The research concludes that both technologies are indispensable components of the general effort towards green mobility.