Hydrogen-fueled cars are a relatively small market compared to electric vehicles. Companies operating hydrogen stations in various regions in the US decided to review these operations. In this context, Shell announced that it closed its hydrogen stations.
Shell closes hydrogen fueling stations in the US
Shell Hydrogen announced this week that it will close all seven of its hydrogen stations in California. The company’s decision signals a withdrawal of support for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). It is also a blow to the future of hydrogen fuel.
California is currently the only US state with a large network of hydrogen stations, totaling around 55. But supply disruptions and safety issues at many of these stations in recent months have raised questions about FCEV vehicles. Shell Hydrogen has decided not to maintain these stations any longer.
In a letter to customers, Shell Hydrogen Vice President Andrew Beard cited “hydrogen supply complications and other external market factors” as the reason for the closures. Many of the stations in California have been plagued by supply disruptions from their main hydrogen supplier.
This led to them either being shut down completely or working reduced shifts. As refueling becomes increasingly difficult, the future of Toyota Mirai, Hyundai Nexus and Honda Clarity Fuel Cell owners remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, free fuel promotions in the US have ended. This has left owners facing expensive hydrogen prices. Shell’s withdrawal from this market also raises questions about the future of hydrogen fuels.
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