Comparative analysis on carbon footprint of hydrogen fuel cell and battery electric vehicles based on the GREET model

Abstract

Facing global warming and new policies on banning the use of diesel in vehicles, there is a growing need in developing vehicles using renewable energy to mitigate carbon emissions in the transport and logistics sector. Among different forms of non-fossil energy for vehicles, hydrogen-powered fuel cell emerges as a promising way to combat global warming. However, previous studies on vehicle carbon emissions focus mainly on diesel and electric vehicles (EVs). Besides, as most of emission assessment methodologies on products are developed for fast-moving consumer goods, there is insufficient research on the product carbon footprint (PCF) of hydrogen-powered vehicles. To address that gap, this study evaluates the life-cycle assessment (LCA) process of hydrogen fuel cell vehicle and compare the PCF of an EV (Tesla Model 3) and a hydrogen fuel cell car (Toyota MIRAI) based on the life cycle assessment model of GREET (Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Transportation). This study found that that the fuel cycle of GREET1 contributes significantly to the vehicle's PCF. Besides, higher transparency in disclosure of relevant data in the PCF methodology adopted by vehicle manufacturers is needed for making comparison of their vehicles' emissions possible. Future research needs to examine the best practices of PCF calculation and reporting for new energy vehicles including private cars and trucks. Future development on simulating various types of hydrogen fuel cells for vehicles and their corresponding emissions are suggested.