Hydrogen-fuel cell electric cargo bike trial launched in Aberdeen
Oxfordshire based manufacturer, Electric Assisted Vehicles (EAV), are building six eCargo bikes for the Aberdeen project, which is due to start early this year.
EAV says the trial has been set up to help gather new insight into the use of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for last-mile deliveries, and has developed the bikes because it has concerns over the weight and true environmental impact of battery-powered vehicles.
The EVAH2Cubed eCargo bike that will be used in the trial incorporates the hydrogen fuel cell in its powertrain, using the electricity generated to charge a small number of batteries. The only emission as a result of the hydrogen being created is water.
Adam Barmby, CEO and founder of EAV, said: “It’s a simple fact that the raw materials for battery production are in short supply.
“EAV focuses on weight reduction, so we use less energy and therefore require less batteries.”
Nigel Gordon-Stewart, executive chairman of EAV, said: “The Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, recently delivered a speech at the Dubai Expo 2020 stating that the UK will be taking a global lead in developing hydrogen-powered transport.
“Nowhere is the use of hydrogen fuel cells in lightweight vehicles more effective than within the urban environment.”
Image: courtesy EVA