First Hydrogen has unveiled its first fuel cell vehicle which is undergoing performance tests at the HORIBA MIRA Proving Ground.
The vehicles were certified last month for UK road use ahead of trials with major UK operators that are scheduled to start in January 2023.
The vans will have a 400-600km range and it is hoped that the company’s vehicle demonstrator program will inform future development for European, US and Canadian markets.
The fuel stack for the First Hydrogen van has been supplied by Ballard Power Systems and fitted by AVL in Basildon.
Steve Gill, CEO of Automotive for First Hydrogen Limited, said: "The team has been working tirelessly to reach this monumental achievement. It has been phenomenal to watch the performance on the test track and really brought our vision into reality. These vehicles enable us to demonstrate how hydrogen fuel cell systems can serve the LCV market; delivering the range and providing the operational flexibility commercial fleets require.”
Nicholas Wrigley, Chairman of First Hydrogen Limited said: “We are delighted with the initial performance of the First Hydrogen fuel cell van. There is growing pressure on the transport sector to achieve zero emission targets, which means operators, governments and investors are eager to see the power of hydrogen mobility in action. Using donor vehicles has enabled us to bring our first demonstrator vans to market quickly. This approach also allows customers to see, feel and experience the operational benefits of hydrogen propulsion in a familiar set up.”