First production hydrogen van launched
Opel has announced that its first production hydrogen-powered van has rolled off the line and will soon start service with MeileThe first production hydrogen van from a vehicle manufacturer is ready to go. The first Vivaro-e Hydrogen off the production line from Opel will begin its zero-emissions work in the fleet of Miele, the manufacturer of premium domestic appliances. The hydrogen fuel cell vehicle will perform daily field service in the Rhine region of Germany.
“With the new Opel Vivaro-e Hydrogen we are opening the next chapter in our sustainable mobility offensive. The clever concept combines the advantages of hydrogen fuel cell propulsion with the versatility and capabilities of our best-selling light commercial vehicle,” said Opel CEO Uwe Hochgeschurtz at the historic event.
Marcus Lott, Head of Development, added: “The new Vivaro-e Hydrogen perfectly meets the requirements of fleet customers. The hydrogen van is the ideal solution for driving long distances with zero-emissions-in-use as well as for transporting larger loads without losing time while charging the batteries. The Opel Vivaro-e Hydrogen leads zero-emissions mobility into the future, especially for commercial use.”
Right-hand drive versions of the vehicle, rebadged Vauxhall, will arrive in the UK from early 2023.
With full tanks of hydrogen, the driving range is quoted at 400kms. The 45kW fuel cell is capable of generating enough power for continuous highway driving. It takes only three minutes to refuel with hydrogen – about the same time needed to fill up a conventional diesel or petrol vehicle.
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The 10.5kWh lithium-ion battery provides dynamic peak power when required, for example, at start-up and under acceleration. The battery also enables regenerative braking, while the plug-in capability offers the opportunity to recharge the battery externally if necessary, providing 50 kilometres of pure battery electric range.
The Vivaro-e Hydrogen has the same internal volume as a regular van and offers up to 1000kg of payload.
Like its battery-electric sibling, the Vivaro-e Hydrogen offers a full suite of safety features including a 180-degree panorama rear view camera, blind-spot alert and front/rear park pilot.
The new Vivaro-e Hydrogen benefits from more than 20 years of experience in the development of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles at Opel and Stellantis. Production takes place at Opel Special Vehicles (OSV) in Rüsselsheim.
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