New white paper delves into hydrogen’s net zero role.

Venson Automotive Solutions is calling on fleet managers to pay close attention to the potential of hydrogen as the world transitions towards cleaner road transport.

The company’s latest white paper on ‘The Big Hydrogen Question’ delves into the role carbon-neutral, green hydrogen could play in achieving net zero emissions, highlighting the promising future of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

Simon Staton, client management director at Venson, shared insights: “Although hydrogen-powered cars may not be currently viable for widespread fleet usage, our research indicates that UK fleet operators should keep a close eye on the increasing investments in hydrogen vehicle technologies and refuelling infrastructure, making FCEVs a more attractive option in the near future.

“For fleets with a mix of vehicles, especially those with heavier models, exploring hydrogen as an alternative is crucial. Additionally, the adoption of e-fuels is projected to gain momentum through blending with conventional fuels.”

Venson’s initial exploration of hydrogen as a fuel option for fleets four years ago identified cost barriers, lack of infrastructure, and reliance on fossil fuels as major challenges hindering widespread adoption in the UK.

The latest research indicates a notable shift with manufacturers showing a stronger commitment to developing hydrogen and e-fuel vehicles, coupled with substantial investments in training technicians to handle the servicing and maintenance requirements of these advanced technologies.

The launch of the Hydrogen UK trade association in 2022 further solidifies the growing interest in advancing hydrogen solutions, urging fleet managers to stay informed as the sector progresses.

Staton emphasised: “As fleets transition away from internal combustion engine vehicles, it’s essential to recognise that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Experts predict that hydrogen prices and component costs will decrease significantly by 2030, driven by economies of scale.

“The future lies in choosing the right technology for the specific job at hand, rather than a blanket decision between FCEVs or battery electric vehicles (BEVs). While BEVs are dominating the passenger car segment, hydrogen fuel cells are making significant strides in the HGV market, posing a strong challenge to traditional diesel-powered vehicles.”

For those interested in delving deeper into the topic of hydrogen and its potential in fleet management, Venson’s comprehensive white paper on the subject can be accessed online.