Why The Movano Hydrogen Van Is A Fleet Owner’s Dream – Hydrogen Fuel News
Opel Unveils the Movano Hydrogen Van with Impressive Range and Efficiency
In a move set to redefine the landscape of commercial vehicles, Opel has announced the introduction of its new Movano Hydrogen van. This cutting-edge vehicle is poised to offer businesses a more efficient and sustainable transportation solution with a remarkable range and fast refueling times.
A New Era for Commercial Transport
Building on the success of its smaller counterpart, the Vivaro Hydrogen, Opel’s latest innovation in hydrogen fuel technology promises a substantial leap for fleet managers and the automotive industry. The Opel Movano Hydrogen model is equipped with a hybrid system that combines a hydrogen fuel cell drive with a plug-in battery. This synergy allows the van to achieve an impressive range of over 500 kilometers (WLTP1), significantly outpacing its battery-electric version by 80 kilometers.
Florian Huettl, CEO of Opel, emphasized the strategic expansion of their hydrogen vehicle lineup at the IAA Transportation unveiling. “For the first time, we will offer the largest member of the Opel LCV family as a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle,” Huettl stated. “Back in 2021, we launched the Opel Vivaro Hydrogen, the first hydrogen transporter from a vehicle manufacturer. Today, with the introduction of the Movano Hydrogen, we are now taking the next step and creating an even stronger offer.”
Advanced Features for Business Advantage
The Movano Hydrogen is not just about distance; it’s about efficiency and convenience. With a hydrogen refueling time of less than five minute as well as it’s capability to cover more distance on a tank, it drastically reduces downtime compared to traditional electric charging. This rapid refueling capability can translate to significant cost savings and increased productivity for businesses, making it an appealing long-term investment as hydrogen prices decline with governmental support.
Under the hood, the electric motor delivers 110 kW of power and a maximum torque of 410 Newton meters, all supported by an 11 kWh lithium-ion battery. This combination ensures optimal performance during acceleration and starting, while the fuel cell system recovers braking energy for recharging the battery.
Additionally, the van incorporates 21 electronic helpers, including Level 2 assisted driving, thereby enhancing safety and driving ease. With a generous load volume of up to 17 cubic meters, the Movano Hydrogen offers ample space for commercial customers with extensive transport needs.
Opel Vivaro-e Hydrogen: The Under-the-Radar Innovator in Sustainable Van Technology
The Opel Vivaro-e hydrogen is a less-publicized but remarkable addition to Opel’s lineup of eco-friendly vehicles. This plug-in fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) is built upon the battery-electric Opel Vivaro-e, yet it boasts a unique 45 kW fuel cell that enables continuous highway driving with ease. The vehicle is equipped with a 10.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, which provides additional power for operations such as starting up and accelerating. The Vivaro-e HYDROGEN offers an impressive range of up to 400 kilometers (WLTP), making it a practical choice for both city commutes and longer hauls. Refueling is notably efficient, taking only about three minutes to replenish with hydrogen, which presents a convenient alternative to lengthy battery charging sessions.
In addition to its efficient powertrain, the Vivaro-e Hydrogen is designed with practicality in mind. It features a generous cargo volume of up to 6.1 cubic meters, a payload capacity of 1,000 kilograms, and the ability to tow up to 1,000 kilograms, making it an ideal solution for businesses requiring substantial transport capabilities. The van’s performance is robust, with a top speed of 68 mph (110 kph) and an acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 15 seconds. Driver assistance systems like a 180-degree panorama rear-view camera, blind-spot alert, and front and rear park pilot enhance safety and ease of operation. Available in two lengths—M (4.95 meters) and L (5.30 meters)—the Vivaro-e Hydrogen offers flexibility to meet various operational needs, all while maintaining zero emissions, underscoring Opel’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
Movano vs. Renault: The Hydrogen Van Showdown
The Movano Hydrogen Van and the Renault hydrogen van are essentially built on the same foundational technology, showcasing how versatile hydrogen power can be. However, these vehicles are tailored differently to meet specific market needs. The Movano Hydrogen Van, currently available for purchase, marks Opel’s rapid entry into the hydrogen vehicle sector. The Renault hydrogen van, notably the Master H2-Tech Prototype, emerges from a strategic collaboration with HYVIA, a joint venture involving Renault Group and Plug Power.
One of the significant differences highlighted in reports is being reported as a 700 kilometer range. Also, the potential for the Renault Master to offer a more diverse range of body styles and payload capacities compared to the Movano. This flexibility in design could make the Renault Master appealing to a broader audience seeking customizable solutions for various commercial needs.
Renault has announced its plan to unveil the Master H2 in 2025, positioning itself to meet the evolving demands of the hydrogen vehicle market.
Opel’s Hydrogen Van: A Clean Long Range Advantage for Fleet Owners
Opel’s commitment to sustainable innovation is reflected not only in the Movano Hydrogen’s technological advancements but also in the company’s expanding commercial vehicle strategy. At the IAA, Huettl shared insights on Opel’s broader van business, highlighting the brand’s impressive sales growth. “Globally, we sold over 125,000 light commercial vehicles last year and we were able to substantially grow our battery-electric LCV sales by 41 percent. We want to continue this success in our LCV business. To do so, we are presenting new, trend-setting products for our customers here in Hanover.”
The introduction of the Movano Hydrogen marks a pivotal moment for businesses seeking to enhance their fleet’s efficiency while reducing their carbon footprint. By offering a state-of-the-art solution that marries distance, speed, and minimal environmental impact, Opel is setting a new standard in commercial transportation.
Fleet managers and industry professionals can look forward to integrating this innovative van into their operations, heralding a future where sustainability and efficiency drive business success.
Article Updated 9/23/24
