Renault Group has prefigured its forthcoming hydrogen-powered Master van at IAA 2024.
Developed by the Hyvia joint venture between Renault Group and Plug, the new Master H2-Tech version will join the existing ICE and EV variants in the fourth-generation Master line-up.
The latest evolution of Master H2-Tech will draw upon Hyvia’s three years plus of research and development, along with customer feedback on the first two versions.
The production model will offer a WLTP range of 700km (434 miles) along with a refuelling time of five minutes, countering some of the concerns with switching to battery electric vans.
It features a new-generation fuel cell, produced at the Hyvia plant in Flins, using Plug’s technology, and a choice of either 7.5 or 9kg hydrogen tanks, sourced from Hyvia partners OPmobility and Forvia, and enabling operators’ different range requirements.
A wide spectrum of different vehicle types will suit varying operator needs and will include van, floor cab and chassis cab versions for a wide range of conversions, such as large volume, tipper, ambulance, gondola or refrigerated transport.
Other developments in the new evolution include a hydrogen architecture that’s now fully integrated into the vehicle platform, preserving load volume and payload. The new Master H2-Tech also optimises energy efficiency in battery and fuel cell management, and will feature a multimedia system for professionals, for optimised management of range and H2 consumption.
Hyvia also says that a network of H2 stations being rolled out across Europe will help escalate hydrogen availability.
Specialist H2-Tech dealers will take care of sales and after-sales service and the van will be fully integrated into the Renault brand’s commercial vehicle range.
The production vehicle will be manufactured entirely at the Renault Group plant in Batilly, France from the end of 2025, alongside the combustion and electric versions of the Master.
The production vehicle will also be marketed by Hyvia at the end of 2025, enhancing its current commercial offer of hydrogen vans that’s been available for sale since April 2023 and already adopted by fleets.
