Peugeot Citroen and fuel cell maker Intelligent Energy have teamed up to create the H2Origin hydrogen delivery van.

Peugeot H2Origin Fuel Cell Van

The H2Origin hydrogen hybrid demonstrator vehicle is the result of a three-year collaboration between the two companies.

British company Intelligent Energy is known for its production of the ENV hydrogen fuel cell motorcycle and other automotive projects. The Intelligent Energy fuel cell was placed inside an all electric, battery-powered Peugeot Partner Origin van.

On all battery power alone the van was able to only achieve a range of 60 miles before recharging. With the addition of the fuel cell and 5,000 psi hydrogen tanks, the H2Origin is able to triple the distance for a range of 180 miles.

One of the unique features of the Peugeot H2Origin compared to other hydrogen vehicles is that its compressed tanks can easily be swapped out when empty as they are mounted upon sliding racks. This does not tie the vehicle to Britain’s only operational hydrogen fueling station, which opened last week.

The Intelligent Energy fuel cell has been designed to withstand cold temperatures up to – 20 C. The 10 kWe hydrogen fuel cell is aided by a 180-volt Panasonic Nickel Metal-hydride battery pack that provides approximately 47 horsepower to the vehicle. The H2Origin has a top speed of around 60 mph.

Of course, Peugeot is no stranger when it comes to hydrogen vehicles. To date, the French automaker has demonstrated the Peugeot 207 EPure, Peugeot Flux concept, and the PSA Peugeot Citroen Quark.

But, by any means, the Peugeot H2Origin is an original, with its extended range, swappable tanks and small fuel cell packed tightly underneath the hood. And, the more originals that roll out the cleaner the air will get, bit by bit.

 

Written by Hydro Kevin Kantola