A project to ensure the UK is well positioned for the commercial roll-out of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles has been launched on Wednesday by the government and 13 companies.
UK H2Mobility, a consortium of 13 automotive companies, government organizations and energy companies, will consider the actions needed to secure the UK’s global role in the manufacture and use of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, ahead of an anticipated roll-out to consumers in 2014/15.
The UK H2Mobility project will identify the level of investment required in a UK-wide hydrogen refuelling infrastructure in order to make fuel-cell cars attractive to consumers.
The project also wants to identify how the commercialization of hydrogen powered motoring can help create new jobs and boost the economy.
Up to £7.5m of a green transport budget of £400m will be earmarked to support the H2 Mobility project.
The UK already makes 550 t of hydrogen every year, the bulk of it used in industrial processes, such as glass manufacture.
“UKH2Mobility will bring together industry expertise to establish the UK as a serious global player in the manufacture and use of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles and the supporting infrastructure,” said Business Minister Mark Prisk.
