First Hydrogen Completes Trials of Hydrogen FCEV Fleet
First Hydrogen has successfully completed real-world trials of its hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) fleet, achieving impressive results. The trials, conducted by energy firm SSE in the Aberdeen, Scotland area, demonstrated the van's efficient fuel consumption and impressive range capabilities. The FCEV travelled over 630km on a single refuelling, consuming approximately 1.58kg of hydrogen per 100 meters at higher speeds.
During the month-long trial, the vehicle operated under light traffic conditions, allowing it to maintain maximum speed limits for extended periods, showcasing its excellent performance. The data provided by SSE indicates that the vehicle performed even better than expected, surpassing the results from pre-trial commissioning tests.
SSE drivers found that the FCEV's driving experience was similar to a standard battery electric vehicle, but its range capability was particularly remarkable, resembling that of a diesel vehicle. Even with full loads one way and partial loads on the return, the vehicle's speed, range, and fuel cell performance remained unaffected.
The vehicle is a hybrid, allowing it to supplement fuel consumption with battery power during driving, effectively managing frequent shifts between acceleration and braking. Throughout the journey, the van also maintained its battery at maximum charge.
Due to Aberdeen's hydrogen refuelling stations undergoing refurbishment during the trial, the vehicle was refuelled at 350 bar rather than the usual 700 bar, but the refuelling time still only took minutes.
Steve Gill, CEO of First Hydrogen, expressed satisfaction with the trial data, highlighting the fuel cell's efficient performance and the vehicle's ability to maintain range despite heavier payloads and consistent higher-speed driving. The positive partnership with SSE has led to considerations for a winter trial in Scotland to assess the vehicle's performance in colder temperatures, where hydrogen is expected to offer advantages over other zero-emission technologies.
SSE, as the first utility business to test First Hydrogen's vehicle, has established a Net Zero Action Plan and aims to transition over 3,000 fleet vehicles to electric by 2023, with more than 1,100 full EVs already in its fleet. Simon Gray, Head of Fleet Services at SSE, emphasized their focus on embracing new technologies and innovations to accelerate the journey to net zero. The real-world insights gained from the Aberdeen trial will be crucial in determining whether hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles can be integrated into SSE's fleets in the future.