Australian hydrogen fuel cell vehicle manufacturer H2X Global has partnered with Austrian motorcycle and sports car manufacturer KTM Technologies to develop a hydrogen delivery van prototype.

The H2X Darling Van is based on a new lightweight ‘origami’ chassis, developed in collaboration with KTM

The H2X Darling Van has been developed to help delivery, cargo and logistics firms make the switch to a zero-emission fleet, without compromising on capacity or operational efficiency.

Unveiled in prototype form at the recent Body Engineering Days Conference, it’s based on a new lightweight ‘origami’ chassis, developed by the two firms in collaboration.

Three different versions are planned: a compact 4,670mm long version with a 4.6m cargo capacity, a 4,903mm standard model with 5.1m3, and a 5,324mm long van with 5.8m3, all with a 1,950mm height. Payload is targeted up to 3,500kg, towing capacity is 1,000kg to 2,550kg and the van has a claimed range of 400km / 248 miles. A refrigerated version is also planned alongside a chassis cab.

The prototype follows a $57m (€54m / £47m) investment agreement secured by H2X from US-based Verde Mobility Inc to accelerate vehicle deployment to customers in Asia, India, Australia and Europe.

H2X Global says it’s now in discussions with a key supplier that “will verify and validate H2X Global’s current project status, emphasizing their expertise in roll-forming T4/T6 aluminium sheets, a pivotal element in the manufacturing process”.

Chris Reitz, chief design officer and co-founder of H2X Global, said: “H2X Global remains steadfast in its commitment to redefining sustainable transportation solutions, with a dedicated focus on hydrogen-powered vehicles tailored to professional drivers’ unique needs. The overwhelming response at Body Engineering Days underscores the industry’s acknowledgement of H2X Global’s pivotal role in pioneering hydrogen mobility solutions.”

Andy Schuhmacher, technical project manager for KTM Technologies, added: “This partnership has allowed us to witness first-hand the innovative vision and dedication of H2X Global in pioneering hydrogen-powered solutions for the automotive industry. As a company committed to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, KTM recognises the immense potential of hydrogen technology in creating environmentally friendly and ground-breaking vehicles.”