ULEMCo secures net-zero funding for hydrogen EV range extender

Welcome to Net Zero News, where we bring you the latest developments driving the UK’s transition to a net-zero future. Today, we report on a major breakthrough in zero-emission freight as hydrogen transport specialist ULEMCo secures vital backing to roll out its first zero-emission solutions for heavy-duty vehicles across the UK.

In a significant step towards the UK’s net-zero goals, Net Zero News can reveal that ULEMCo has been awarded £3.1 million in funding to develop and deploy hydrogen fuel cell powertrains and conversion kits for trucks. The announcement, confirmed this week, marks the launch of the company’s first full-scale hydrogen solutions designed specifically for heavy haulage on British roads.

ULEMCo’s initiative builds on its decade of experience converting light and medium-duty vehicles to run on hydrogen. The new project will focus on vehicles with a gross vehicle weight between 7.5 and 26 tonnes, integrating modular fuel cell units, hydrogen storage tanks and refuelling systems. These bespoke drivetrains are engineered to deliver the range and reliability demanded by long-distance freight operators.

Under the programme, ULEMCo will retrofit at least ten heavy-duty trucks, demonstrating extended-range zero-emission performance that rivals traditional diesel engines. The company aims for a minimum 300-mile operational range per refuelling, ensuring the technology meets real-world logistics requirements and minimises commercial disruption.

This development matters because road freight accounts for nearly a fifth of the UK’s transport emissions. By substituting diesel power trains with hydrogen fuel cells, operators could avoid approximately 150 tonnes of CO₂ per truck each year. Net Zero News understands this project forms part of the government’s wider ambition to decarbonise HGVs by 2050 and aligns with the UK’s commitment to cut overall greenhouse gas emissions by 78 percent by 2035 compared to 1990 levels.

Beyond carbon savings, the roll-out promises local economic benefits. ULEMCo anticipates creating up to 50 skilled jobs across engineering, manufacturing and field service roles by 2026. The scheme also seeks to stimulate the nascent hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, prompting collaboration with regional stations and encouraging new investment in on-site hydrogen production.

Funding for the project comprises a £2 million grant from UK Research and Innovation’s Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge, matched by £1.1 million in private equity from ULEMCo’s investor group. Delivery partners include ITM Power, which will supply PEM electrolyser technology, and Protium, a specialist hydrogen logistics operator supporting the deployment of mobile refuelling units at UK ports and depots.

The Department for Transport and the Department for Business and Trade both welcomed the announcement. Net Zero News understands that local authorities in the Midlands and North West have offered planning support for converting existing refuelling sites, while Innovate UK has pledged additional technical guidance throughout the development phase.

This initiative is strategically aligned with the UK Hydrogen Strategy and the Road to Zero transport plan, reinforcing heavy-duty vehicles as a priority sector for decarbonisation. The project also dovetails with regional net-zero roadmaps, including the Midlands Engine’s green growth agenda and the Northern Powerhouse’s clean mobility objectives.

Industry and community stakeholders have expressed optimism over the scheme’s potential to reduce roadside pollution and noise in urban areas. Logistics firms trialling the converted trucks expect smoother operations during night-time deliveries, owing to reduced engine noise and zero local emissions. However, challenges remain around scaling hydrogen production and ensuring a reliable refuelling network across rural routes.

Looking ahead, ULEMCo plans to complete initial truck conversions by autumn 2025, followed by a six-month demonstration phase. Subject to performance milestones, the company aims to expand its offering to articulated HGVs and municipal vehicles from early 2026, contributing to a greener, more efficient freight sector.

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