UK-based HVS unveils brand-new hydrogen powered truck

HVS (Hydrogen Vehicle Systems) is ready to unveil its brand-new hydrogen powered electric truck. HVS is an emerging OEM in the heavy commercial vehicle segment. The manufacturer took the wraps off its 5.5-tonne technology demonstrator, to be used to launch an all-new 40-ton hydrogen HGV featuring a unique powertrain and radical cab design.

Founded in 2017, in Glasgow, HVS focuses on the ground-up design and development of zero-emission hydrogen powered commercial vehicles. The company comprises industry specialists, with vast experience in the automotive, energy, hydrogen technology, power electronics, sustainability and environmental management fields. In addition to funding from Innovate UK, Scottish Enterprise and Energy Technology Partnership, HVS’ strategic investment partner is the service station and grocery corporation, EG Group, offering hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, fleet customer base and the potential for global scalability. HVS is Headquartered in Glasgow, Scotland, and is undertaking development work at Horiba MIRA, Nuneaton, Warwickshire.

HVS trucks: designed around their hydrogen powertrain

HVS tractor units will be built on an all-new chassis, designed in-house around the hydrogen powertrain, which consists of pressurised hydrogen cylinders, fuel cells, energy storage system and e-axle. HVS’ vehicle powertrain employs a fuel cell system and energy storage system to deploy electricity to an electric motor to transmit power to the wheels. It uses the KERS (kinetic energy recovery system) to recapture energy under braking and while the truck is slowing down.

The integrated powertrain is controlled with HVS’ advanced control system ‘SEMAS’ which will deliver class-leading fuel efficiency and durability which contributes to achieving a low cost of ownership comparable to that of current diesel-powered offerings in the market. Depending on the journey – the route travelled, road conditions and driving style – HVS’ truck has the capacity to cover in excess of 500 km. Plans are in place for a left-hand drive variant of the hydrogen-fuelled 4×2 HGV tractor unit, with a rigid chassis model also in the pipeline.

“This technology demonstrator showcases our ground-breaking hydrogen-electric commercial vehicle design and advanced powertrain technology, a precursor to our HGV model”, commented HVS CEO Jawad Khursheed. “Fuelled by close-coupled green hydrogen (hydrogen produced directly by renewable energy sources such as hydro, wind or solar) our zero-emission trucks are a key part of decarbonising the logistics sector. Hydrogen is the perfect fuel for the haulage industry, offering long ranges and quick refuelling thanks to stations easily integrated into key transport networks”.