The UK’s intent to popularize hydrogen fuel cell vehicles could make them a more common sight on the country’s roads.
A recent consultation seeks to determine the potential use of hydrogen-powered vehicles in sectors such as farming and construction, to expedite the process of decarbonization in critical sectors of the economy.
A vital measure in the consultation aims to assess the demand for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in various sectors. This effort could bring a more significant number of fuel cell passenger cars on UK roads. With enhanced industrial adoption of hydrogen fuel cells, improved technology could be developed and its usage may increase.
The study will consider how hydrogen-powered heavy vehicles like tractors, diggers, and forklifts can promote greener operations in construction and agriculture. There is a robust expectation for the regulations to permit hydrogen-powered vehicles’ usage on roads in Great Britain.
Anthony Browne, Technology and Decarbonisation Minister, highlighted that the proposed plans are integral to the government’s strategy to cut down transport emissions in the UK. The minister encouraged companies to invest in hydrogen technology, emphasizing that such advancements will make hydrogen fuel cells more affordable and widely used.
Recent years have seen increased efforts from both the government and private industry to hasten progress in the sector, thereby reducing emissions. As an example, UK brand JCB was granted a special vehicle order to test their hydrogen-powered diggers on local roads.
The consultation could lead to substantial investment in the hydrogen industry in the UK. Subsequently, drivers might witness an increase in the number of hydrogen cars, vans, and lorries on the road. As of December’s update of the Government’s Hydrogen Strategy report, the UK hosts around 265 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
