Renault Fuel Cell Extenders for BEVs Boost LCV Potential
After five years of working away from the glare of publicity, Renault will launch a hydrogen fuel cell enhanced powertrain for its LCV range.
Developed in partnership with Michelin subsidiary, Symbio, the vehicles are equipped with a range extender fuel cell providing electric and thermal power of 10 kW, claiming to boost the range of the Renault Master Z.E. Hydrogen nearly 220 miles, nearly tripling the range over the BEV mid-sized Renault Master model.
The automaker claims the big advantage of the fuel cell range extender is that it can refuel in less than 10 minutes making long distance zero emission commercial deliveries a reality. There are two hydrogen tanks located under the car body to maintain carrying capacity which allows for between 381-ft3 to 706-ft3, depending on model, while vehicle weight increases by 440-lbs.
The compact Renault Kangoo Z.E. Hydrogen will claim a real-world sector leading range of 230 miles with a load volume of 137-ft3 and a weight increase of 242-lbs. This vehicle comes to market by the end of this year while the Master will be available next year.
Denis Le Vot, Alliance senior vice-president, Renault-Nissan LCV business unit, said: “These vehicles provide professionals with all the range they require for their long-distance journeys as well as record charging times.
