Hydrogen-based propulsion and battery-electric systems are two of the most prominent technologies leading the shift toward zero-emission vehicles. Both aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependency on fossil fuels, yet they differ fundamentally in their approach to energy storage, conversion, and overall sustainability. Understanding these differences requires a detailed examination of efficiency, infrastructure, environmental impact, and technological maturity. In terms of efficiency, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) currently hold a significant advantage over hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). BEVs store electricity directly in high-capacity lithium-ion or next-generation solid-state batteries, which then power electric motors with minimal energy loss. The process of charging a battery and converting that stored energy into motion typically achieves a well-to-wheel efficiency of 70–90%, depending on the vehicle design and battery type. In contrast, hydrogen-based propulsion involves multiple energy conversion steps: electricity is first used to produce hydrogen through electrolysis, then the hydrogen must be compressed, stored, transported, and finally converted back into electricity within a fuel cell to drive the motor. Each of these steps introduces energy losses, resulting in an overall efficiency of approximately 25–35% from renewable electricity input to mechanical output. This difference in efficiency is a critical factor when considering large-scale adoption, as it directly impacts energy consumption and the environmental footprint of vehicle operation. However, efficiency is only one aspect of sustainability. Hydrogen propulsion offers distinct advantages in terms of range, refueling time, and potential for renewable energy integration. Hydrogen FCVs can