Viritech will explore the feasibility of hydrogen fuel cell range extenders (REX) on smaller vehicles like last-mile delivery vans to address battery challenges.
The feasibility study will focus on integrating portable sub-5kW fuel cells with existing battery packs to increase vehicle range while maintaining payload capacity and meeting regulatory requirements.
In an online statement, Viritech claimed there is “significant market potential” in using these solutions for on and off-highway electric vehicles.
“Currently, battery electric last-mile delivery vehicles are restricted in terms of their range,” the statement read. “Particularly when faced with challenging use cases such as extreme weather conditions, congested urban areas and undulating terrains.”
By using portable fuel cells in conjunction with the battery packs, Viritech aims to “establish a gateway for creating an entirely new market for fuel cell technology.”
The project has been supported with a grant from the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT), through the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) and Niche Vehicle Network.
Viritech is now seeking to engage with light commercial vehicle (LCV) OEMs and last-mile delivery operators to discuss how the fuel cell system can support their requirements.
Last year, Viritech launched its powertrain suitable for road cars, LCVs and off-highway applications, containing a 60kW fuel cell and a 6kg 350 hydrogen storage system.
Read more:Viritech reveals fuel cell powertrain as part of new portfolio of solutions
Can hydrogen cars still drive the future of mobility?
While collaborations like BMW and Toyota’s signal continued commitment to hydrogen technology, the broader market context paints a more complex picture, with several challenges blurring the rationale of hydrogen mobility.
For decades, interest in hydrogen cars has waxed and waned. Early enthusiasm in the 1990s and 2000s was driven by the potential of reaping the benefits of a zero-emission solution, with little change to the behaviours of gasoline car users.
However, over the past 10 years, battery technology has improved significantly, seeing battery electric vehicles (BEVs) gain significant market share, with players such as Tesla leading the charge.
While the benefits of hydrogen in certain light-duty use cases seem apparent, the real-world numbers show a clear decline in interest. According to South Korean consultancy SNE Research, global FCEV sales dropped by over 30% year-on-year in 2023 to 14,451 from a peak of 20,704 in 20221.
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