The first fleet trials of the Vauxhall Vivaro Hydrogen are now underway ahead of the arrival of the Movano Hydrogen later this year.

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Already sold in left-hand-drive markets by Opel alongside the Vivaro Electric, the Vivaro Hydrogen is the first commercially available production hydrogen van.

A range of companies, including some of the UK’s largest fleets, will take part in the trial over the coming months, evaluating the vehicle.

Based on the existing fully electric Vivaro Electric, the hydrogen-fuelled version features a 45kW fuel cell and 10.5kWh lithium-ion battery located under the front seats, delivering a WLTP driving range of 249 miles. A key benefit is that the 5kg hydrogen fuel tanks located under the floor can be refilled in just five minutes – about the same time needed to fill up a conventional diesel or petrol vehicle.

The lithium-ion battery provides dynamic peak power when required, such as at start-up and under acceleration, while also helping the fuel cell run at optimum operating conditions and allows for regenerative braking.

The battery can also be recharged externally if necessary, providing 31 miles of pure battery electric range.

The Vivaro Hydrogen also delivers the same onboard space as combustion engine versions, offering up to 6.1m3 of cargo volume and a maximum payload of 1,000kg.

It’s on trial with UK fleets ahead of the launch of Movano Hydrogen, which will be available for orders later this year and is due to start first deliveries in 2025. Showcased at IAA Transportation 2024, the hydrogen fuel cell vehicle will offer a range of up to 311 miles (WLTP) and, like the Vivaro Hydrogen, can be refuelled in under five minutes.

The electric motor produces 150hp (110kW) and maximum torque of 410Nm, while the 11kWh lithium-ion battery provides support when starting or accelerating. The system also enables braking energy to be recuperated and fed into the battery as electricity via the electric motor working as a generator.

Earlier this year, Vauxhall partnered with UK company Ryze Hydrogen to develop hydrogen charging infrastructure solutions for fleet operators, allowing businesses to run hydrogen vehicles and refuel them, either onsite or at a located refuelling facility.

Vauxhall will be the only manufacturer offering two zero-emission solutions – battery electric and fuel cell electric vehicles – enabling van fleets to choose the one that best suits their operational requirements

James Taylor, managing director, Vauxhall, said: “With a 311-mile range, zero-emissions-in-use and quick refuelling, the Movano Hydrogen will provide fleets with another sustainable option alongside our full line-up of battery electric vans. I look forward to hearing feedback from fleet operators taking part in the trial ahead of the commercial launch of Movano Hydrogen later this year.”

Vauxhall’s existing line-up of battery electric vans spans the Combo Electric, Vivaro Electric and Movano Electric. The brand has offered an electric version across its entire LCV model range since 2021.