IELTS Reading Practice | Hydrogen Cars

Fueling the Future: Are Hydrogen Cars the Next Big Thing?

For over a decade, hydrogen cars have been touted as the environmentally friendly successor to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. These futuristic machines, powered by hydrogen fuel cells that emit only water vapor, offer the allure of zero emissions without the range anxiety often associated with battery-electric cars. However, the path to widespread adoption of hydrogen cars has been bumpy, riddled with challenges in infrastructure, cost, and even the production of clean hydrogen itself.

Despite these hurdles, there are signs that the tide may be turning. Major car manufacturers like Toyota and Hyundai are continuing to invest in hydrogen fuel-cell technology, and some governments are offering incentives for both car purchases and the development of hydrogen fueling stations. Proponents argue that hydrogen cars offer a unique advantage over battery-electric vehicles for long-distance travel, with refueling times that rival gasoline vehicles. Additionally, hydrogen fuel cells have the potential to be used in heavy-duty applications like trucks and buses, which are difficult to electrify due to battery weight limitations.

The future of hydrogen cars remains uncertain. Technological advancements and increased investment in infrastructure are needed to make them a truly viable alternative. However, the potential environmental benefits and applicability to long-distance and heavy-duty transport make hydrogen a technology to watch in the ongoing race toward a sustainable transportation future.

Reading Comprehension Questions

1. According to the passage, what is the main appeal of hydrogen cars?

(A) They are faster than gasoline-powered cars.
(B) They are cheaper to purchase than electric cars.
(C) They produce zero emissions and have a long driving range.

2. What is one of the biggest challenges facing the widespread adoption of hydrogen cars?

(A) The design of the fuel cell itself is too complex.
(B) There is a lack of infrastructure for hydrogen refueling stations.
(C) Hydrogen cars take much longer to refuel than gasoline cars.

3. Why might hydrogen fuel cells be well-suited for heavy-duty vehicles?

(A) Hydrogen fuel cells are more powerful than electric batteries.
(B) Hydrogen is lighter than gasoline, making it ideal for large trucks.
(C) The weight of batteries in electric vehicles limits their range for heavy loads.

Score =

Correct answers:

  1. (C) is correct because the passage specifically mentions that hydrogen cars emit only water vapor and highlights their advantage in range over electric vehicles.
  2. (B) is correct because the passage mentions that challenges include infrastructure, implying a lack of refueling stations.
  3. (C) is correct because the passage states that the weight of batteries is a challenge for electrifying heavy-duty vehicles, while hydrogen offers an alternative.


IELTS Reading Practice Renewable Energy

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