A hydrogen-powered meals on wheels vehicle said to mark a world-first has gone on trial in Wales.
Vantastec, in partnership with the Swedish fuel cell experts at PowerCell, has converted a Nissan Townstar electric van with its new, patent-pending hydrogen power unit to power equipment that can defrost and regenerate meals to an edible temperature.
It’s being trialled by Monmouthshire Council for its Monmouthshire Meals service, which delivers hot and frozen meals to residents with an assessed need, helping them stay independent in their homes for longer.
The service operates 365 days a year, bringing meals to approximately 300 households in their specially made vehicles.
Vantastec managing directors Gareth Edwards and Colin Smith said the new hydrogen power unit will be a gamechanger for helping businesses reach net zero.
They elaborated: “Battery powered vehicles certainly have their place. But when it comes to installing heavy ancillary equipment, any additional weight can drastically affect an EV’s real-world range.
“Feedback from our customers tells us EVs aren’t optimal for a lot of business’ workflows.
“Our new hydrogen power unit gives fleet operators one less battery to charge. Instead, they are able to refuel at a hydrogen fuel station in less than 10 minutes.”
The power unit gives specialist vehicle operators a new, zero-emission independent power source for onboard equipment such as microwaves, water heaters, regeneration ovens and more.
Members of the PowerCell team recently spent several days at Vantastec’s headquarters in South Wales testing the power unit, where proof of concept was successfully signed off.
Powercell sales manager Stuart Sharp said: “PowerCell is proud to be a part of this project, which is bringing hydrogen applications closer to the community.
“This demonstrates the limitless possibilities and demand for hydrogen fuel cells in our lives as we transition to a greener future.
“The success of this project, achieved in record time, is attributed to the teamwork between PowerCell and Vantastec. Both companies have contributed their expertise and dedication to develop the hydrogen fuel cell power generation system installed on the roof of the vehicle. This collaboration showcases that true net-zero fleet operation is achievable today.”
Vantastec’s Gareth Edwards and Colin Smith continued: “The pack can be installed on any kind of van as an additional power source – not just oven vans. You can even use it as a standalone generator to charge your electric vehicles.
“We have big plans for it. And we can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
