Obstacle identification, analysis and solutions of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for application in China under the carbon neutrality target

Transport sector causes enormous carbon emissions but is struggling to reduce it in China. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, making it possible for zero-carbon transportation with the background of renewable energy hydrogen production in the future, are of great help to achieve the grand carbon neutrality. However, HFCVs fail to enter millions of thousands of households. To promote their application efficiently, an obstacle system with 14 factors is established based on literature review and expert consultation according to characteristics of China firstly, namely economic, technical, social and political obstacles. Interactions among the 14 obstacles are further evaluated by expert opinions. Considering uncertainty and randomness existing in subjective judgment, Cloud model is introduced to improve original DEMATEL method for the first time to analyze comprehensive importance and causal relationship. According to key parameters of the results, incomplete supporting facilities, hydrogen fuel safety issues and insufficient number of manufacturers occupy the top three importance degree. Additionally, political and technical obstacles have more obvious effects on the whole system. The results have a guiding role for both governmental regulations and enterprise practices in dealing with the obstacles. Finally, a series of general suggestions and specific policy implications for China are provided to boost prosperity.

Automated summary

The transportation sector in China is struggling to reduce carbon emissions, with hydrogen fuel cell vehicles showing potential to achieve zero-carbon transportation. However, the promotion of HFCVs is hindered by a variety of obstacles, including economic, technical, social, and political factors. Political and technical obstacles have a more significant impact on the overall system, highlighting the need for targeted strategies to overcome these challenges.