Vauxhall begins testing hydrogen vans in UK fleets.

Vauxhall has officially kicked off the first fleet trials of the groundbreaking Vivaro Hydrogen, setting the stage for the imminent launch of the Movano Hydrogen later this year. This news marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable transportation solutions.

The Vivaro Hydrogen, already making waves in left-hand-drive markets by Opel along with the Vivaro Electric, is making history as the first commercially available production hydrogen van. This innovative vehicle is set to revolutionise the way we perceive commercial vehicles.

A diverse range of companies, including some of the largest fleets in the UK, will partake in the trial over the next few months, putting the vehicle through its paces and evaluating its performance in real-world scenarios.

Built on the foundation of the existing fully electric Vivaro Electric model, the hydrogen variant boasts a 45kW fuel cell and a 10.5kWh lithium-ion battery snugly situated beneath the front seats. This dynamic combination enables the vehicle to achieve an impressive WLTP driving range of 249 miles, promising efficiency without compromise.

One of the standout features of the Vivaro Hydrogen is its capability to refill the 5kg hydrogen fuel tanks under the floor in just a swift five minutes – a time frame comparable to the conventional refuelling process for diesel or petrol vehicles.

The lithium-ion battery plays a pivotal role in providing dynamic peak power when needed, such as during acceleration or start-up. Additionally, it optimises the fuel cell’s performance and facilitates regenerative braking, showcasing a seamless integration of cutting-edge technology.

Should the need arise, the battery can be recharged externally, offering an additional 31 miles of pure electric range for added versatility. Moreover, the Vivaro Hydrogen maintains the same spacious interior as combustion engine counterparts, offering up to 6.1m3 of cargo volume and a maximum payload capacity of 1,000kg.

As the Vivaro Hydrogen takes centre stage in UK fleets, anticipation is building for the upcoming release of the Movano Hydrogen later this year. This innovative model, slated for initial deliveries in 2025, was unveiled at the IAA Transportation 2024, showcasing a remarkable range of up to 311 miles (WLTP) with the added convenience of rapid refuelling in under five minutes.

The electric motor of the Movano Hydrogen generates an impressive 150hp (110kW) and a maximum torque of 410Nm, delivering robust performance with eco-conscious efficiency. Complemented by an 11kWh lithium-ion battery, this system enables energy recuperation during braking and efficient electricity generation via the electric motor acting as a generator.

Earlier this year, Vauxhall joined forces with UK-based company Ryze Hydrogen to develop innovative hydrogen charging infrastructure solutions tailored for fleet operators. This strategic partnership aims to empower businesses to seamlessly run hydrogen vehicles and refuel them on-site or at designated refuelling stations.

Vauxhall’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its dual offering of zero-emission solutions – battery electric and fuel cell electric vehicles. This comprehensive approach allows van fleets to select the option that aligns best with their operational requirements, showcasing a forward-thinking mindset towards eco-friendly mobility solutions.

James Taylor, managing director of Vauxhall, expressed his enthusiasm for the forthcoming commercial launch of the Movano Hydrogen, stating, “With a 311-mile range, zero-emissions-in-use and quick refuelling, the Movano Hydrogen will provide fleets with another sustainable option alongside our full line-up of battery electric vans. I look forward to hearing feedback from fleet operators participating in the trial.”

Vauxhall’s existing lineup of battery electric vans includes the Combo Electric, Vivaro Electric, and Movano Electric, offering a comprehensive array of eco-conscious choices. With an electric version available across its entire LCV model range since 2021, Vauxhall continues to champion innovation and sustainability in the realm of commercial vehicles.