H2X Global unveils new hydrogen van prototype with KTM
November 1, 2023This represents the first H2 vehicle unveiling between the vehicle manufacturer and auto engineering firm.
Fuel cell vehicle manufacturer H2X Global has unveiled its new hydrogen van prototype as a part of its partnership with global automotive engineering firm KTM Technologies GmbH.
The unveiling of the new H2 vehicle took place at the recent Body Engineering Days Conference.
The partnership between H2X Global and KTM Technologies involved collaborating on the development of solutions for strong lightweight vehicle bodies. The conference took place in Aachen, Germany and had over 180 automotive industry experts in attendance. These attendees were from some of the top vehicle manufacturers in the world, such as BMW, Honda, Tesla, and a spectrum of OEMs and suppliers.
The hydrogen van prototype, nicknamed the Darling Van, was unveiled by KTM on behalf of H2X Global. The unveiling was considered a success, having drawn the “undivided attention” of the attendees, according to a news release from H2X Global. It also went on to spark “strong interest and in-depth discussions.” The vehicle is being seen as particularly promising for professional drivers.
The attendees viewed the hydrogen van as offering a “refreshing” new automotive industry perspective.
H2X Global is now in discussions with a key supplier who will be able to provide the company’s current project status with verification and validation, underscoring their roll-forming T4/T6 aluminum sheet expertise, which is a central part of the manufacturing process.
The unveiling has arrived on the heels of a recent announcement from H2X Global that it had secured an investment agreement valued at over $57 million from Verde Mobility. The investment will provide the company’s growth with meaningful acceleration.
The hydrogen van is a commitment to sustainable transportation solutions
“H2X Global remains steadfast in its commitment to redefining sustainable transportation solutions, with a dedicated focus on hydrogen-powered vehicles tailored to professional drivers’ unique needs,” said H2X Global Chief Design Officer and Co-Founder Chris Reitz about the hydrogen van unveiling. “The overwhelming response at Body Engineering Days underscores the industry’s acknowledgement of H2X Global’s pivotal role in pioneering hydrogen mobility solutions.”
“KTM is thrilled to have collaborated with H2X Global on the unveiling of the Hydrogen Professional Van prototype at the Body Engineering Days conference,” added KTM Technologies Technical Project Manager Andy Schuhmacher. “This partnership has allowed us to witness firsthand the innovative vision and dedication of H2X Global in pioneering hydrogen-powered solutions for the automotive industry. As a company committed to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, KTM recognizes the immense potential of hydrogen technology in creating environmentally friendly and groundbreaking vehicles.”
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The launch of the Darling hydrogen-electric powered van, shows a growing trend amongst lightweight commercial vehicle manufacturers of the recognition of the advantages of hydrogen power for operators that require a long mileage between refueling and/or limited battery charging facilities. Toyota has taken a similar decision several years ago to develop their Hilux hydrogen power pick-up truck at their UK Midlands centre near Derby