Vauxhall has announced a major new partnership to develop and expand hydrogen charging solutions around the UK.
The British brand has been one of a handful of brands to embrace hydrogen fuel cells as an alternative to internal combustion engines and electric vehicles.
The hydrogen-powered Vauxhall Vivaro has an impressive range of up to 249 miles and is the brand’s first major move into developing hydrogen vehicles.
Thanks to a new partnership with Ryze Hydrogen, charging and refuelling infrastructure for fleet operators and corporate customers will see huge developments.
The new partnership will allow Vauxhall to expand hydrogen refuelling stations
VAUXHALL/GETTY
The aim of the collaboration is to allow businesses to run hydrogen vehicles and refuel them either on-site or at a dedicated refuelling facility.
Vauxhall has outlined its plans to move forward with a “widespread and workable” hydrogen refuelling infrastructure for companies around the UK.
James Taylor, managing director at Vauxhall, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Ryze to develop hydrogen refuelling solutions for customers across the country.
“Next year, our new Movano Hydrogen will be available for fleet and business customers to order, offering a new practical, long-range, zero-emissions vehicle.
“With the help of businesses like Ryze, drivers will be able to add hydrogen vans to their fleet trouble-free and with accessible charging options at convenient locations.”
The Vivaro will commence fleet evaluation trials in the UK in 2024, while orders will open for the hydrogen-powered Movano later in the year.
Vauxhall is set to launch the Movano Hydrogen with the brand describing it as the “perfect solution” for drivers making use of up to 311 miles of range and a refuelling time of around five minutes.
It is hoped that the first customer deliveries will take place in 2025 as businesses adapt their fleets by increasing the amount of zero emission vehicles.
Hydrogen has been identified as a suitable alternative for vans and HGVs as some fleet operators remain cautious about whether electric vehicles can handle the requirements.
The majority of van owners rely on vehicles to carry large amounts of weight and drive long distances every day, prompting many to suggest hydrogen as a viable solution.
Mark Gilks, head of business development and mobility at Ryze, praised the automotive brand for embracing alternative fuels.
Speaking about the partnership, he added: “Vauxhall is making hydrogen a key component of its net zero strategy.
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The Vauxhall Vivaro Hydrogen
VAUXHALL
"Ryze is at the forefront of green hydrogen production and supply and we are incredibly excited to be working with Vauxhall and its customers on tailored solutions to their net zero ambitions.
“Every business is different and while some may want their own fuelling facility at their depot, others may be looking at a co-location solution, and that is where our experience comes in.”