Fuel Cell vs. Battery Electric Vehicles

When you choose an electric vehicle, you are choosing a more sustainable driving experience on the roads of Des Moines, Waukee, and beyond. And there are a number of benefits that come with that decision, like fewer maintenance needs, an end to refueling stops, and potential tax incentives, to name just a few. 

You have two types of EVs to choose from: fuel cell and battery electric models. And if you are wondering what the differences between fuel cell and battery electric vehicles are, you have come to the right place. Mercedes-Benz of Des Moines explores fuel cell vs. battery electric vehicles in detail below.

Differences Between Fuel Cell & Battery Electric Vehicles

Battery electric vehicles like the EQE and the EQB SUV are equipped with a battery pack and at least one electric motor. A BEV needs to be plugged into an electricity source to charge the battery, then it pulls stored energy from the battery to power your motor on every West Des Moines drive. For ultimate comfort and convenience, most BEV owners use Level 1 charging at home, as it only requires a standard wall outlet, or they have a more powerful Level 2 charging system professionally installed. Level 2, as well as Level 3/DC Fast Charging systems, are also available at public stations.

Fuel cell vehicles essentially run on hydrogen, which is one of the biggest differences between fuel cell and battery electric vehicles. They produce electricity with a fuel cell that’s powered by hydrogen, rather than drawing electricity from a battery by itself. Your vehicle’s hydrogen fuel tank capacity determines how much energy can be stored for your drives. But with most FCVs, the battery recoups braking energy and provides extra power for braking and brief accelerations.

Fuel Cell vs. Battery Electric Vehicles: Key Parts

Both fuel cell and battery electric vehicles feature a battery and an electric motor, but they each boast some parts unique to their respective designs. Here is a breakdown of a few key fuel cell vs. battery electric vehicle components:

Battery Electric Vehicle Parts

• Battery
• Control Module
• Drive train
• ​​Electric motor
• Inverter

Fuel Cell Vehicle Parts

• Battery with converter and controller
• Electric motor
• Fuel-cell stack
• Hydrogen fuel tank

Discover a New EV at Mercedes-Benz of Des Moines

Now that you have a better idea of the differences between fuel cell and battery electric vehicles, start shopping for your next EV at Mercedes-Benz of Des Moines. Browse our inventory, then contact us to schedule a test drive. You can also continue your Mercedes-Benz research online. Your next ultra-luxe, performance EV awaits in Urbandale.