Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles as a sustainable transportation solution in Qatar and the Gulf cooperation council: a review

This work explores various alternative vehicles, their advantages and disadvantages, and ranks them based on factors such as performance, economy, and market acceptance regionally. The study also analyzes the transportation schemes and modal split usage in Qatar and the Gulf Cooperation Council region. The predominant use of passenger vehicles and buses for mass transportation is highlighted, and the status of alternative transport usage in each country is presented. The potential for hydrogen-based vehicles is discussed, along with the means of production and storage, color code, and associated technologies, considering its ranking among the top options within a regional context. It is concluded that the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, including Qatar, have national visions to reduce their environmental impact, particularly in transportation and energy production. Given that passenger vehicles are the region's most commonly used mode of transportation, the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles can help reduce emissions. This study suggests implementing a few regional policies such as gradual reduction of gasoline and other fossil fuels subsidies, financial incentives for clean fuels and fuel cell vehicles, diversification of alternative fueled public transport, and additional restrictions on vehicles' tailpipe emissions.(c) 2023 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.