Hydrogen Vehicle Systems (HVS) has started prototype manufacturing of its hydrogen trucks at Silverstone.
- HVS is collaborating with Fablink in a long-term partnership to utilise their comprehensive build facility.
- This milestone includes the production of Attribute Prototype (AP) test vehicles for intensive testing.
- The Silverstone facility offers advanced capabilities, including quality assurance and logistics support.
- Lindsay Watson and Satwik Mehta highlight the engineering collaboration and shared innovation goals.
Hydrogen Vehicle Systems (HVS), a hydrogen truck manufacturer, has commenced the prototype production phase at its dedicated build facility in Silverstone, Northamptonshire. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the company’s journey towards series production of hydrogen fuel cell heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). The Silverstone facility, owned by Tier One manufacturer Fablink, provides HVS with complete-build capabilities, ensuring a comprehensive and efficient manufacturing process.
Fablink has entered into a long-term partnership with HVS to facilitate the construction of cab structures, chassis, and power towers. This partnership extends to provide essential assembly services, leveraging Fablink’s engineering prowess. Lisa-Marie Cunningham, HVS’s interim chief operating officer, emphasised the importance of this collaboration, noting the facility’s state-of-the-art equipment and expertise critical to the successful execution of HVS’s build operations.
Lindsay Watson, Chief Technical Officer at Fablink, expressed pride in the partnership, citing Fablink’s extensive engineering and technical capability as key to the landmark project. Similarly, Satwik Mehta, Engineering Director at HSSMI, highlighted their commitment to sustainable transportation solutions and the importance of optimising manufacturing processes to produce high-quality prototypes efficiently.
The initial build of the first prototype rig has been completed and is set for dispatch to UTAC, Leyland for initial testing. The construction of several other Attribute Prototypes (APs) is underway, each designed to test specific attributes of the truck, from strength and durability to range and efficiency. The ultimate goal is to prepare for series production, anticipated to begin mid-decade.
Additionally, HVS has been awarded £6.6 million in government funding to spearhead the development of a self-driving, zero-emission HGV, in collaboration with the Hub2Hub consortium. This ambitious project aims to launch vehicle trials by 2024, positioning HVS at the forefront of innovative and sustainable transport solutions.
The commencement of prototype production signals HVS’s commitment to advancing hydrogen-powered transport innovation.
