Automakers are rolling out hydrogen fuel cell vehicles despite a fueling infrastructure that's very much in an early phase. But thanks to a new partnership between Toyota and Shell, there will be a few more hydrogen stations popping up in California in the near future.
Bloomberg reported Monday the two companies would team to fund seven new hydrogen filling stations in California. Those stations will contribute toward the state's goal of 100 filling stations by 2024, up from just 25 today.
Shell already established two hydrogen filling stations in Los Angeles, as well as five others in Europe. For the oil giant, it represents a logical move as more fuel cell models go on sale.
Toyota markets the Mirai hydrogen-powered car and it's joined by the Honda Clarity and Hyundai Tucson FCV, all of which are only available in select markets in California and post paltry sales figures. In addition to the relatively high lease prices, a lack of infrastructure has hampered acceptance of hydrogen cars.
While even 100 stations isn't a lot compared to traditional gas stations, California seems intent on adopting hydrogen as an alternative fuel source, even as plug-in electric vehicles struggle to gain traction in the marketplace. But it's too early to tell if people are attracted to the idea of a car that emits just water. We have to wait and see.