Ford in the UK is researching hydrogen fuel cell technology for its E-Transit van.

The project’s aim is to establish if the technology can deliver more zero-emission range to heavy-use E-Transit customers travelling high mileages, with maximum loads, ancillary equipment such as chillers and with limited charging opportunities in the working shift.

Part funded by the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) – an organisation that collaborates with the UK government, the automotive industry, and academia to accelerate the transition to a net-zero automotive industry – the project will help to determine the supporting hydrogen refuelling infrastructure required.

Partners in the project include bp, capturing hydrogen usage and infrastructure requirements; Cambustion, testing the fuel cell system; Viritech, designing hydrogen storage systems; and Cygnet Texkimp, providing the pressure vessels’ carbon fibre tooling.

The prototype Ford E-Transits will be fitted with a high-power fuel cell stack and significant hydrogen storage capability. Ford says an important project element will evaluate efficient and viable recycling for end-of-life components.

A test fleet of eight fuel cell Ford E-Transits will run for six-month periods over the three-year project to 2025.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (June 2023)

7 June 2023