Hydrogen vehicles in the green energy transition: A systematic review of internal combustion engine and fuel cell technologies, energy system integration, and AI application

This review examines hydrogen vehicle technologies as strategic enablers of sustainable energy transition, focusing on Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines (H2-ICEs) and Fuel Cell Hydrogen Vehicles (FCHVs) within broader energy infrastructure and planning contexts. The analysis considers how recent technological advances, combined with AI-driven optimization, can inform national policy frameworks and support large-scale hydrogen mobility deployment.The methodology integrates technical performance assessment with strategic evaluation of infrastructure needs, policy implications, and economic viability. Key dimensions include system integration capabilities, grid stabilization potential through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) applications, and AI-based predictive tools for optimizing both vehicle performance and energy network coordination. Case studies from Japan (Toyota Mirai) and South Korea (Hyundai Nexo) illustrate effective implementation pathways and the role of supportive policy environments.Unlike previous reviews centered on technical performance, this study adopts a strategic planning perspective, evaluating hydrogen vehicles as active components of national energy security and decarbonization strategies. AI applications are assessed not only as efficiency enhancers but also as enablers of scalable deployment and renewable energy integration. Evidence from the literature suggests AI-enhanced hydrogen vehicles can achieve up to 8% efficiency improvement, 32% reduction in hydrogen consumption, and 71% reduction in household electricity imports via V2G systems. The review identifies persistent gaps in AI integration strategies, standardization of V2G protocols, and cross-sector coordination. Addressing these challenges requires integrated policy frameworks that link transport and energy planning. The findings provide a foundation for future research and strategic initiatives in hydrogen mobility deployment.