New hydrogen van provides diesel convenience with zero emissions
A prototype hydrogen van will make its debut in Paris this month promising a zero-emission range of more than 300 miles and refuelling times similar to petrol or diesel LCVs
Hydrogen could be the fuel of the future that provides clean power to the UK’s commercial vehicle fleets, according to the makers of a new prototype van.
The Renault Master Van H2-TECH has been developed by HYVIA, a joint venture between the manufacturer and hydrogen specialist Plug Power, with a planned launch date of 2022.
It offers 310 miles of range from a 30kW fuel cell and 33kWh battery pack, with a refuelling time of minutes, compared to hours for pure electric alternatives.
Energy is generated by the on-board fuel cell, which uses hydrogen to produce electricity that then powers the wheels, while creating zero CO2 emissions.
HYVIA creates its own hydrogen using green production methods for a low-emission supply chain or it can be generated on-site using a new in-house system.
It expects the van to meet the needs of a range of businesses, large accounts, fleets, and local communities; more prototypes being developed include the Master Chassis Cab H2-TECH, with more cargo space (19m3) and a range of around 155 miles.
A planned minibus, the Master Citybus H2-TECH, will be able to carry 15 passengers nearly 200 miles.
The innovation shows the growing range of fuel choices set to become available to fleet operators as the UK moves towards a proposed ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030.
Currently, manufacturers are focusing production on plug-in electric vehicles powered by batteries, but the government has said it wants to investigate the potential of hydrogen fuel cells in commercial vehicles.
You can review full details of electric vehicle technology choices in the Reflex Vehicle Hire Electric Vehicle Guide.
Alternatively, contact one of our expert team members to discuss your fleet requirements.
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