Ford tests hydrogen fuel cell technology for E-Transit vans

Ford announced that it is testing the use of hydrogen fuel cell technology for its E-Transit vans in the United Kingdom (UK).

The UK-based project, the Blue Oval brand stated, will establish if hydrogen fuel cell technology can help deliver enhanced zero-emission-driving range for E-Transit customers with energy-intensive use cases.

The American automotive brand’s commercial vehicle (CV) and services division, Ford Pro, will use the pilot to expand its conversion expertise, supported by on-site engineers and E-Transit specialists from the company’s Dagenham site and Dunton Technical Center, in Essex, UK.

Ford revealed that a test fleet of eight hydrogen fuel cell Ford E-Transits will run for six-month periods over the three-year project to 2025. Collected data will provide insights into the total cost of owning and operating a large van with an enhanced zero-emission range and uptime that matches a diesel-powered equivalent.

Ford will equip the E-Transit prototypes with a high-power fuel cell stack, in conjunction with significant hydrogen storage capability, optimized for safety, capacity, cost, and weight.

“Ford believes that the primary application of fuel cells could be in its largest, heaviest CVs to ensure they are emission-free while satisfying the high daily energy requirements our customers demand. Ford has an unmatched history in the commercial vehicle sector with the indomitable Transit, and we are excited to be exploring new ways to make clean deliveries an option for even our hardest-working vans on the road,” commented Ford Britain Chairman Tim Slatter.

Photos from Ford

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