Hydrogen

For being the most abundant element in the universe, hydrogen sure gets a bad rap. H2 powertrains have been on the cusp of breaking through seemingly forever, but the explosive growth of battery electric vehicles has continued to relegate hydrogen power to the backburner.

Hydrogen’s latest rebuttal against the dominant paradigm comes in the form of a partnership between two carmaking juggernauts: BMW and Toyota. Like virtually every other carmaker on the planet, the two have tried their hand at hydrogen before—from BMW’s curious V-12-equipped Hydrogen 7, to Toyota’s remarkably normal, fuel cell-powered Mirai.

BMW has been defending hydrogen for years, while continuing to further its full battery-electric agenda through new models like the iX, i4, and i7. Meanwhile, Toyota has pioneered volume hybrid gas-electric drivetrains with the sales tsunami that began with the Prius. The anticipated 2025 ramp up may come as a surprise to hydrogen skeptics, but critics should note that the Bavarian brand’s past collaborations with Toyota on the Z4 and Supra were mutually beneficial, both from a creative and business perspective. 

BMW AG

Although BMW has not been nearly as bullish on EVs as other manufacturers, sales chief Peter Nota reveals that the union could help achieve its target of 50 percent electrification across the lineup two years ahead of its current expected date of 2030. While hydrogen has never been the end goal for either manufacturer, hedging on the technology together offers a safer route as countries like Germany invest billions in hydrogen, further fueling projects like the iX5 hydrogen fuel cell SUV.
There’s no reason to doubt the technical prowess of two heavily engineering-focused manufacturers. But hard questions arise with a variable that can’t be ascribed to a number: desire. If the carmakers can combine the reassurance of a compelling brand experience with styling that makes you look over your shoulder as you walk away, hydrogen could very well play a supporting role in the future of sustainable transportation.

Trucking could be rolling towards a hydrogen-powered future—if Gaussin has anything to say about it, that is. The French engineering firm has just unveiled a new “skateboard” platform for freight trucks that promises sustainable cruising sans any harmful emissions.

The versatile system comes in two different versions that are both geared toward eco-friendly freight transportation. Designed for long-haul trucking, the hydrogen-powered setup offers a range of nearly 500 miles and a refueling time of less than 20 minutes. Conversely, the all-electric configuration is intended for shorter stints and promises a range of around 180 miles per charge plus a battery swap that takes just three minutes.

Designed for both traditional manufacturers and new entrants, the rolling, modular system can be fitted to Class 8 tractor and straight trucks that range from 18 tons all the way up to 44 tons. It features an ultra-lightweight chassis and open interface that will lend itself to autonomous driving technology (whenever that actually becomes a reality). It’s also available in various lengths, heights and axle configurations to meet the different needs of the market.

The hydrogen-powered setup offers a range of nearly 500 miles. 

Gaussin

“With this hydrogen and electric skateboard, a world premiere, Gaussin reaffirms its pioneering role in the ecological transition and the development of low-carbon mobility solutions,” CEO Christophe Gaussin said in a statement.
Gaussin has also been tapped by ECT, a French company that specializes in the management of construction waste, to develop three hydrogen-powered trucks. The trio of lorries will assist in the upcycling of excavated soil from urban worksites, with each targeting different tasks. A dozen or so 10×4, 70-ton tipper vehicles with 10 hours of autonomy will schlep soil and target on-site transport. So too will the purported self-driving 10×4 tipper without a cabin that can carry an additional 25 percent payload. The several 4×2, 44-ton tractors, meanwhile, will offer a range of roughly 300 miles and will be used for road transport to and from the site. The first trucks are expected to roll out in 2022.

The truck’s chassis is nearly 900 pounds lighter than traditional designs. 

Gaussin

“This first contract for Gaussin’s modular hydrogen and electric ‘skateboard’ and its version for public works carriers and tractors comes less than a month after the official presentation of this revolutionary vehicle,” adds Gaussin. “We have no doubt that many others will follow.” We’ll definitely be watching.

Check out more photos of hydrogen-powered ECT trucks below:

The 10×4, 70-ton tipper with 10 hours of autonomy. 

Gaussin

The autonomous 10×4, 70-ton carrier without a cabin. 

Gaussin

The 4×2, 44-ton tractor with a range of roughly 300 miles. 

Gaussin

A hydrogen-powered hypercar is on the horizon for 2023—if Viritech has anything to say about it, that is. The budding British startup has just announced plans to roll out a sleek, sustainable and speedy four-wheeler in just two years’ time.

The luxe two-door has been christened Apricale. That moniker comes from the Latin word “apricus,” which means to be “touched by the sun.” Fittingly, it’s one blistering hot ride that, like the center of our solar system, runs on hydrogen.

Considered a hydrogen fuel cell alternative to the all-electric Lotus Evija and Tesla Roadster, Viritech claims the Apricale will be “half the weight of its battery competitors.” It’ll likely be more exclusive, too, with production limited to just 25 models.

Production will be limited to just 25 models. 

Viritech

The Apricale’s low fighting weight is due to Viritech’s innovative new hydrogen storage tank. Made from graphene, it acts as a structural component of the monocoque chassis rather than something that’s just plonked atop. This reportedly helps to reduce the overall weight while improving handling.
While performance specs are still to come, the company says the Apricale will “challenge the world’s fastest battery-powered hypercars.” The Evija and Roadster have touted top speeds of 200 mph and 250 mph, respectively, which means this hydrogen-powered beast will need to pack a significant number of horses (roughly 1,100 hp) to ensure it’s on par with its rivals.
On top of that, the speedster, which will only emit water vapor, has an eye-catching exterior reminiscent of a Pagani or Bugatti. Think sinuous, aerodynamic lines, menacing wheels and butterfly doors.

The zero-emission machine has the eye-catching exterior of a Pagani or Bugatti. 

Viritech

In addition to the Apricale, Viritech is also developing a hydrogen-powered truck called the Jovian and an SUV called Tellaro. The startup will also focus on developing and refining hydrogen fuel cell technology for other companies and industries. It’s good timing considering that the eco-friendly technology is being incorporated in everything from sailing catamarans to two-seat aircraft.
“The Apricale is our trojan horse—the attention-grabbing icon for a business focussed on developing hydrogen powertrain solutions, for the automotive, aerospace, marine and distributed power industries,” Viritech said in a statement.
Viritech, which was co-founded by ex-Formula One engineer Matt Faulks, will develop the Apricale at the MIRA Technology Park in Nuneaton, England. The first deliveries are expected to begin in 2023, and they won’t come cheap. Buyers can expect to fork out around $2.1 million (£1.5 million) per car. But, hey, think of all the money you’ll save on fuel.

Check out more renders of the Apricale below:

Viritech

Viritech

Viritech

Viritech