Hydrogen Cars Decline as Electric Vehicles Dominate in the Netherlands
Amsterdam, Tuesday, 19 August 2025.
The Netherlands has only 600 hydrogen cars compared to over 600,000 electric vehicles. This stark difference challenges hydrogen’s viability as a sustainable automotive solution.
Hydrogen Cars at a Crossroad
The current state of hydrogen vehicles in the Netherlands reflects a broader trend observed internationally. With only 600 hydrogen cars on Dutch roads amid over 600,000 electric vehicles, the trajectory of hydrogen technology appears increasingly uncertain [2]. Manufacturers like Stellantis are discontinuing their hydrogen programs due to high costs and limited refueling infrastructure [5]. Furthermore, hydrogen-powered vehicles like the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo are struggling to gain traction with consumers, facing challenges such as higher prices compared to their electric counterparts [5].
Barriers to Hydrogen Adoption
Hydrogen’s faltering progress is partly attributed to the inefficiencies in its production and use. Compared to electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen cars require significantly more energy, with only about 30% efficiency in energy conversion, compared to EVs that achieve over 90% [2]. Additionally, the infrastructure supporting hydrogen cars is sparse, with fewer than 25 hydrogen refueling stations available in the Netherlands and no significant growth expected [5]. Such logistical barriers, coupled with a lack of substantial financial incentives, further contribute to hydrogen’s declining appeal [5].
The Electric Vehicle Surge
In contrast, electric vehicles continue to see substantial growth due to their cost-effectiveness and robust support from governmental policies. The average cost of an electric car stands at approximately €44,000, significantly lower than the €70,000 price tag of a typical hydrogen car [2]. Various countries, including the Netherlands, have implemented strategies to gradually phase out incentives for hydrogen vehicles while supporting electric alternatives, as these are considered more economically viable and environmentally sustainable [7]. Moreover, global leaders in the automotive sector are increasingly favoring battery electric vehicles over hydrogen technology, a trend strongly visible in market investments and research focus [6].
A Shift in Investment Strategies
Investment trends are shifting in response to market demands and technological advancements. Companies like Tesla and others are focusing on scaling electric vehicle production alongside improvements in battery technologies, aiming to lower costs and enhance performance [7]. As leading European and Asian manufacturers move to scale up their electric vehicle offerings, hydrogen technology is experiencing a reduction in investment, signalling that the industry views batteries as the more promising avenue for future development [6]. Despite initial hopes for hydrogen as a major player in reducing emissions, the current landscape prioritizes electric vehicles as the leading solution in the pursuit of a sustainable automotive future [2][6].