China became the world's largest market for hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in 2023.
This is according to a report by SNE Research, a South Korean renewable energy research firm.
According to SNE Research, FCEV sales in China reached 5,600 units in 2023, representing 38.8% of global sales.
The next largest markets were South Korea, the United States, Europe, and Japan, with sales figures as shown in the graph.
Cumulatively, total global FCEV sales in 2023 reached 14,450 units. This represents a 30% decrease compared to 2022 (year-on-year).
"The main reason for this decline is the slump in FCEV sales in South Korea, which was the number one FCEV market share in 2022," said the SNE Research team in its press release (February 15, 2024).
"Due to increasing hydrogen refueling costs, incidents of damage, and a lack of hydrogen refueling infrastructure, FCEVs have lost their appeal in the eco-friendly vehicle market," they said.
However, SNE Research projects that FCEV sales could strengthen again in 2024, driven by the construction of hydrogen refueling infrastructure in China, and the launch of new FCEV models from major manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai.