The First Hydrogen Generation II concept has been revealed giving customers a hint at what the real van might look like.
The vehicle will be available with both fuel cell electric and battery electric drivetrains. Customers will have the option to choose the technology that best suits their needs.
The new images released by the company reveal the vehicle's overall form and some of its technical features. The vehicle has an aerodynamic fuselage, which will help to reduce wind resistance and increase efficiency. The muscular and dynamic fenders add to the vehicle's sporty and modern look.
The large front grille is both functional providing necessary ventilation for the vehicle's front located fuel cell. This is an important feature for a fuel cell vehicle, that requires a constant flow of air to function properly.
Other manufacturers are also targetting fuel cells as a powertrain for vans. A Renault collaboration with Plug Power has developed Hyvia, a dedicated hydrogen business. Stellantis is looking to produce an medium-sized hydrogen van which will be sold as the Vauxhall Vivaro-e Hydrogen.
The fact that First Hydrogen is currently trialing its Generation I fuel cell electric vehicles with major fleet operators in the UK is a positive step towards commercialisation. The feedback and data collected during these trials will be crucial in refining and improving the design. It will also inform the engineering of future vehicles to help meet the needs of customers.
The projected growth of the global light commercial vehicle market, coupled with the increasing emphasis on zero emission targets and government incentives, provides a promising market for First Hydrogen to target. By focusing on the commercial van market and light commercial vehicle sector, the company can offer fleet operators an attractive option to move away from fossil fuels and invest in zero emission transport.
