Comparative Preliminary Unit Costs Analysis of the Operation of Passenger Cars with Combustion Engines and Fuel Cell Vehicles Powered by Hydrogen

Abstract

Abstract The article presents political and legal aspects regarding the recommendation for the development of hydrogen technology in the economy and in transport. The development of electric cars with hydrogen-powered fuel cells, which took place in recent years in the world, has been outlined. The principles of calculation of average vehicle operating costs applicable in the transport economics are discussed. The estimated average unit operating costs of a statistical passenger car using conventional energy carriers, estimated in the studies of the Motor Transport Institute are quoted. The assumptions and results of the estimation of the average cost per 1 vehicle-kilometre of the electric passenger car’s mileage (BEV) have been presented, as well as the assumptions and results of the estimation of the average unit operating costs of a hydrogen powered passenger car (FCEV). The average unit costs of the mileage of these vehicles have been compared. The predictions regarding the future changes in the average prices of FCEV vehicles have been cited and the average unit costs of operating electric cars with fuel cells by the 2050 have been estimated. The project of administrative support for the development of low-emission transport in Poland was indicated.