Here's why:
1. Low Energy Density: The energy density of water is relatively low compared to conventional fuels like petrol or diesel. This means that a large amount of water would be required to produce a comparable amount of energy, making it impractical for vehicle propulsion.
2. Electrolysis: Splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis is energy-intensive. The amount of energy required for electrolysis often exceeds the energy content of the hydrogen produced, making it inefficient and impractical for large-scale use as a vehicle fuel.
3. Storage Challenges: Storing hydrogen or other energy carriers derived from water presents significant technical challenges, including high pressures or low temperatures, which introduces safety and infrastructure concerns.
4. Combustion Issues: Water itself does not burn. Conventional gasoline and diesel engines rely on combustion to produce power, which requires a flammable fuel. Water, being a compound of hydrogen and oxygen, cannot sustain combustion on its own.
5. Engine Modifications: Conventional internal combustion engines are not designed to run on water. Significant modifications would be necessary to adapt engines to use water as a fuel, which would entail substantial engineering challenges.
While research continues in the field of alternative fuels and energy technologies, the practical use of water as a primary fuel for cars remains a futuristic concept that has yet to overcome significant scientific and technological barriers.