The application of fuel cells was an important approach for vehicle industry to deal with the challenges of Energy shortage and environment pollution caused by traditional power machines. Fuel cells, which generate power and torque with zero emissions and high efficiency, are considered as an promising future power machine for vehicles. This paper reviewed previous research model and method for fuel cell, effect of state parameters and structural parameters on the performance of fuel cell, power density and life cycle of fuel cell systems in recent years, Prospected development and application of fuel cell system in the future. (C) 2018 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC.