The History of our Hydrogen Refuelling Trucks
Fuel Cell Systems has been a pioneer in developing mobile hydrogen refuelling solutions that bridge the gap between the growing interest in hydrogen-powered vehicles and the limited availability of static refuelling stations.
Since 2016, Fuel Cell Systems has built three generations of hydrogen refuelling trucks, each representing a significant step forward in functionality and environmental sustainability.
First Generation HyTruck right before its departure to Sweden for BMW’s cold weather vehicle testing
First generation HyTruck – 2016
The journey began with the development of the original HyTruck, launched in 2016. This 7.5 tonne mobile hydrogen refuelling truck was the first of its kind and has been in continuous use ever since. Designed to address the scarcity of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, the first HyTruck allowed us to deliver hydrogen directly to locations where it was needed, whether for vehicle testing, fleet operations or other applications. This trailblazing vehicle could not carry hydrogen on public roads, limiting its operational range to specific areas. The original HyTruck has supported a variety of significant projects, including trials of hydrogen fuel cell-powered scooters by the Metropolitan police, testing the first hydrogen fuel cell train in the UK (Hydroflex), various launch events and ride-and-drive demonstrations.
Second Generation HyTruck outside the Queen Elizabeth II Center in Westminster for the HEA Annual Conference 2024
Second Generation HyTruck – 2019
Building on the success of the first generation, Fuel Cell Systems developed a second-generation HyTruck that overcame the limitations of its predecessor. This next version was designed to transport hydrogen while in transit, making it far more efficient. This advancement allowed Fuel Cell Systems to support ambitious projects such as Zero Avia’s HyFlyer plane project on behalf of the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC).
The HyFlyer project, funded by Innovate UK, aimed to demonstrate hydrogen fuel cell powertrain technology for zero-emission aviation. The project integrated a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain aboard a Piper M-class six seater aircraft and conducted test flights out of Cranfield and Orkney. Zero Avia lead the project, with Intelligent Energy optimising high-power fuel cell technology for aviation, and EMEC supplied green hydrogen.
Our proven reliability, demonstrated by the original HyTruck’s extensive use, was a key reason why EMEC and Zero Avia chose Fuel Cell Systems to provide a new HyTruck to support this ambitious project.
EMEC HyFlyer Truck
Third Generation HyTruck – 2024
Continuing on the path of sustainable innovation, Fuel Cell Systems has now designed and built the third generation of the HyTruck in collaboration with Cranfield University. The latest model represents a major leap forward in sustainable transportation, as it is housed in a battery-electric vehicle. Unlike the previous diesel-based trucks, the new HyTruck operates with zero emissions at the point of use, aligning with our commitment to decarbonising transport. The vehicle is also ADR certified, enabling it to carry hydrogen safely on public roads.
The electric HyTruck not only supports Cranfield University’s aviation projects but also highlights the progress in integrating hydrogen storage and dispensing systems within environmentally-friendly vehicle platforms. The combination of battery-electric power and hydrogen distribution represents a fully zero-emission solution.
HyTruck designed and built by Fuel Cell Systems in collaboration with Cranfield University
HyTruck in action – supporting industry leaders
Throughout its history, FCS’ mobile hydrogen refuelling trucks have been utilised by prestigious clients, including the BMW group for their hydrogen fuel cell vehicle testing across Europe and the Metropolitan Police in trialling hydrogen-powered Suzuki scooters. These partnerships highlight the reliability and utility of our hydrogen refuelling solutions across different sectors.
At Fuel Cell Systems, we remain dedicated to advancing our mobile hydrogen refuelling solutions to meet the challenges of a low carbon future. With the latest electric HyTruck, we continue to uphold our mission to provide flexible, mobile, and zero-emission hydrogen refuelling.
Toyota HyTruck designed and built by FCS at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024