How many MPG does a hydrogen car get?
Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles (FCVs) are evaluated using miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe) rather than traditional miles-per-gallon (MPG). In practical terms, most current FCVs deliver about 60–75 MPGe, depending on the model and year, with real-world results influenced by driving conditions and hydrogen availability.
Understanding MPGe and Hydrogen
MPGe is a metric created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to compare the energy efficiency of alternative-fuel vehicles to gasoline. For hydrogen, energy content is different from gasoline, so MPGe expresses how many miles a vehicle can travel on the energy equivalent of one gallon of gasoline. A kilogram of hydrogen contains about 33.3 kilowatt-hours of energy, roughly matching the energy in a gallon of gasoline, but FCVs convert this energy through a fuel cell and electric drivetrain with additional losses. EPA testing cycles standardize these comparisons to provide a comparable figure across different propulsion types.
Current Market Landscape and Typical Numbers
Below are representative figures from CAFs currently available in the U.S. market, noting that EPA ratings can vary by model year and refinement.
- Toyota Mirai: Typically in the mid-to-high 60s to low 70s MPGe in combined city/highway cycles, depending on the model year and configuration.
- Hyundai Nexo: Generally around 60–65 MPGe combined in recent model years.
- Honda Clarity Fuel Cell: Historically in the high 60s MPGe combined, though this model shifted out of wide U.S. sale and is more commonly found in used-car listings or select markets.
Real-world results can diverge from EPA numbers due to driving style, temperature, and hydrogen fueling practices. In addition, the practical driving range per fill typically falls around 300–400 miles for newer FCVs, varying by vehicle and the efficiency of the powertrain.
Infrastructure, Cost, and Real-World Considerations
Hydrogen fueling infrastructure remains far less widespread than gasoline or electric charging networks. Availability and fueling costs strongly influence ownership practicality. Prospective buyers should consider hydrogen price per kilogram, vehicle efficiency (MPGe), and access to reliable refueling in their region when evaluating ownership or leases.
What is the Bottom Line?
For shoppers and readers, hydrogen FCVs offer MPGe ratings that typically sit in the 60–75 MPGe range, with real-world range often in the 300–400 mile per fill ballpark depending on the model. The technology is advancing, but fueling networks and regional availability continue to shape how and where these vehicles fit into everyday life.
Summary
Hydrogen cars are measured in MPGe rather than MPG. Current models generally achieve about 60–75 MPGe, with typical real-world ranges of a few hundred miles per tank. As the market evolves, model profiles and fueling infrastructure will continue to influence how FCVs perform in daily use.
