Recently, claims have emerged that Tesla, the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, plans to venture into hydrogen-powered cars. This assertion has sparked significant interest and debate, given Tesla’s established role as a pioneer in battery-electric vehicles.
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Recent claims circulating online suggest that Tesla, under Elon Musk’s leadership, is developing a hydrogen-powered car. These claims have spread widely in recent weeks. This claim has drawn significant attention since Tesla is a pioneer in electric vehicles (EVs), which compete directly with hydrogen fuel cells as sustainable transportation solutions.
However, we found that the claim is false and Elon Musk has no plans to enter the hydrogen car industry.
Fact Check
Musk’s Stance Against Hydrogen: Elon Musk has repeatedly criticized hydrogen as an energy source, particularly for vehicles. Over the years, he has dismissed the idea in interviews, tweets, and public statements:
In 2015, Musk called hydrogen fuel cells “Extremely Silly,” emphasizing inefficiencies in hydrogen production and storage. He stated, “Hydrogen is a dumb idea for cars”.
Musk’s opposition to hydrogen fuel cells stems from his belief in the superior efficiency of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). As he explained that: “Hydrogen is an energy storage mechanism, not a primary energy source. It’s inefficient and doesn’t make sense compared to batteries”.
On X (formerly Twitter), Musk has consistently opposed hydrogen fuel cell technology. In 2020, he wrote “fuel cells = fool sells”.
Followed by a stronger statement in 2021, calling them “fool sells” and “a silly choice for cars”.
In 2023, he emphasized that “Hydrogen in cars make zero sense. Its best case use is rockets and, even then, it loses to methane imo”.
Most recently in 2024, he maintained his position, declaring that “hydrogen is silly for cars and only barely sensible for rockets, where payload is ~1000 times more valuable”.
Technical and Economic Challenges with Hydrogen Cars
When comparing hydrogen fuel cells to battery-electric technology, several technical considerations emerge:
Various automotive manufacturers are exploring both technologies. Companies like Toyota and Hyundai have invested in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, citing advantages in refueling speed and range capacity. Industry analysts suggest that both technologies may serve different market segments, with battery-electric vehicles currently showing stronger growth in the personal transportation sector. Tesla continues to focus on battery-electric technology, citing efficiency and practicality as key factors in its strategic decision. (Source: CNBC)
Tesla’s Current Electric Vehicle Focus
Tesla focuses on advancing sustainable transportation through electric vehicle technology. The company has established itself as a leader in battery-electric vehicles, viewing this approach as an effective path toward sustainability.
There have been no official announcements or documentation from Tesla or its leadership regarding hydrogen-powered vehicles. Such a significant shift in direction would require formal disclosure and is likely to generate substantial industry discussion.
Tesla manufactures a range of electric vehicles – Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y – powered by lithium-ion batteries. The company continues to advance its battery technology, including development of 4680 cells, while maintaining its focus on battery-electric vehicles. (Source: Reuters)
Conclusion
Claims that Tesla is developing a hydrogen-powered car are false. Elon Musk has consistently criticized hydrogen fuel cell technology as impractical and inefficient, calling it ‘silly’ for vehicles. Tesla remains focused on battery-electric vehicles and has no official plans to enter the hydrogen market.
Sources
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