Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rapid decline of Japan's hydrogen fuel cell vehicle industry over the past decade, contrasting it with China's significant advancements in the same field, particularly in commercial vehicles like buses and trucks [3][4][5]. Group 1: Japan's Hydrogen Energy Landscape - Japan once dominated the hydrogen fuel cell technology and industry chain but has fallen behind in practical applications due to limited market size and infrastructure [4][5]. - As of the end of 2023, Japan has only built 166 hydrogen refueling stations, which is far below expectations, creating a bottleneck for the development of hydrogen vehicles [6]. - In 2024, Japan's hydrogen passenger vehicle sales are projected to be only 697 units, highlighting the stark contrast with China's approach [9]. Group 2: China's Hydrogen Energy Strategy - China has focused on commercial vehicles, particularly hydrogen fuel cell trucks, achieving approximately 5,800 hydrogen vehicle sales by 2023, accounting for nearly 40% of global sales [9]. - The introduction of the "Beijing-Shanghai Hydrogen Energy Transportation Corridor" by Sinopec demonstrates China's commitment to long-distance hydrogen transport, marking a significant milestone in hydrogen logistics [13][15]. - The Chinese government provides substantial subsidies for hydrogen fuel cell trucks, making their prices competitive with diesel versions, thus encouraging adoption [20][18]. Group 3: Environmental and Economic Implications - Hydrogen fuel cell trucks can significantly reduce carbon emissions, as one 49-ton diesel truck emits as much CO2 as 40 gasoline cars [16]. - The shift to hydrogen in heavy-duty vehicles aligns with China's carbon reduction goals, as heavy trucks contribute significantly to national carbon emissions [16][34]. - The development of hydrogen energy is seen as a strategic move to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and transition to renewable energy sources [38][49]. Group 4: Innovations in Hydrogen Transportation - China is exploring multiple low-cost hydrogen transportation methods, including converting hydrogen to ammonia for easier transport and using solid-state hydrogen storage [27][28]. - The "West-to-East Hydrogen Transmission" project aims to utilize renewable energy sources in western China to produce green hydrogen for consumption in eastern regions [32]. - The establishment of hydrogen production and refueling stations that can generate hydrogen on-site is a promising development for enhancing the hydrogen supply chain [27].