How big is the hydrogen fuel cell car tank?
Hydrogen fuel cell cars typically store about 5 kilograms of hydrogen in high‑pressure tanks, providing roughly 350–400 miles of driving range on a full tank depending on the model and driving conditions.
In this report, we break down what “tank size” means for hydrogen vehicles, how these tanks are built to hold pressurized gas safely, and how the capacity varies across popular models. We also explain how the amount stored translates into real-world range and what that means for refueling and vehicle design.
What counts as the tank in a hydrogen car?
In hydrogen vehicles, the “tank” is not a single bulky reservoir but a set of high‑pressure, lightweight tanks made from carbon‑fiber composites and other materials. These vessels store hydrogen at about 700 bar (roughly 10,000 psi). The capacity is typically expressed in kilograms of hydrogen (kg) because gas density rises and falls with temperature and pressure, making a simple liter/gal figure less meaningful. The overall system is designed to be compact enough to fit under the floor or behind the rear seats while meeting strict safety standards.
Safety and refueling basics
The tanks are designed to endure normal driving stresses and potential impacts, with multiple layers of protection and automatic shutdowns in case of a leak or crash. Refueling a hydrogen FCV is quick—the process generally takes about 3–5 minutes at a specialized station, with the gas stored at high pressure to maximize energy content in a relatively small volume.
Tank capacity by model (typical values)
Below are representative figures for several well-known modern fuel cell cars. Values are approximate and can vary by model year, market, and testing cycle.
- Toyota Mirai: about 5 kilograms of hydrogen stored at 700 bar; EPA range listed near 400 miles on a full tank.
- Hyundai Nexo: typically around 5–5.6 kilograms; commonly cited driving range around 380 miles.
- Honda Clarity Fuel Cell: generally around 4–5 kilograms, with a real‑world range in the mid‑300s to roughly 360 miles.
Note: Actual range depends on factors such as temperature, driving style, terrain, and climate control usage. Manufacturers publish official range figures for each market and model year.
How tank size affects performance and weight
Hydrogen tanks contribute noticeably to the vehicle’s curb weight, even though they are built from lightweight composites. The capacity of about 4–6 kilograms typically aims to balance practical driving range with packaging, safety, and cost constraints. Because hydrogen is stored at very high pressure, tank design prioritizes both safety and efficiency to maximize usable energy without adding excessive bulk.
As the hydrogen fueling network expands and technology evolves, tank designs may shift—potentially changing both capacity and weight—yet the goal remains delivering a few hundred miles of range per fill with rapid refueling comparable to conventional refueling in many regions.
Summary
In practical terms, the hydrogen fuel cell car tank is usually around 4–6 kilograms of hydrogen stored at high pressure (about 700 bar), yielding roughly 350–400 miles of range under typical conditions. The exact capacity varies by model and year, but the general pattern across major automakers is a compact, multi‑tank system designed for safety, relatively quick refueling, and a driving range that makes hydrogen a viable alternative to conventional fuels in appropriate markets.
