Toyota, Honda and Shell announced a plan to expand their hydrogen refueling network in California.
Shell will install hydrogen refueling systems at 48 gas stations using a grant from California’s hydrogen refueling infrastructure support. The company will also upgrade two Shell hydrogen stations and add fuel dispensers to heavy-duty truck stations.
Additionally, Toyota and Honda have agreed to expand sales of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) in California to support the Shell hydrogen Stations. Toyota and Honda plan to expand sales of the Mirai and Clarity Fuel Cell, respectively.
Currently, there are nine Shell hydrogen stations in California. New hydrogen stations will be added to these nine stations, which will accelerate the development of infrastructure for the popularization of fuel cell vehicles.
Source: Response (The original article was partially revised by the author.)
PSR Analysis: The hydrogen challenge is now in full swing in California, where many environmental initiatives are being taken. Toyota and Honda have already commercialized FCVs, but the market for eco-cars is currently dominated by EVs and PHVs, and FCV sales are limited to a very small number.
The merits and demerits of both FCVs and EVs are already being discussed in various ways, but in the end, unless the infrastructure is in place, FCVs cannot be popularized. Shell already has a lot of experience in the area of hydrogen fueled infrastructure and would be the most suitable partner for Toyota and Honda in the US. If the assessment of FCVs is done correctly in California, this could be a great in the US. If the assessment of FCVs is done correctly in California, this could be a great opportunity for Japanese OEMs who are ahead of the curve in FCV development. PSR
Akihiro Komuro is Research Analyst, Far East and Southeast Asia, for Power Systems Research
