UK Poised to Lead in Hydrogen Fuel Cell Innovation for Heavy Transport, APC Report Finds
The UK has a major opportunity to become a global leader in hydrogen fuel cell technology for medium- and heavy-duty transport, according to a new report by the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC). The report highlights key areas for innovation in hydrogen fuel cells and hydrogen storage systems, critical for decarbonizing trucks, buses, and other heavy vehicles.
Titled the Hydrogen Fuel Cell System and Storage Innovation Opportunities Report, the study identifies four high-impact innovation areas:
- Fuel cell stack advancements, including membranes and catalysts.
- Balance of plant developments, covering thermal management and fluid handling systems.
- Compressed hydrogen storage solutions, including structural integration and lightweight tank materials.
- Thermal and pressure regulation for onboard hydrogen storage.
The report emphasizes the investment potential in the UK, particularly for advanced technologies such as fuel cell components, innovative storage tanks using carbon fibre and polymer materials, and balance-of-plant systems.
“The UK can grow its fuel cell system and hydrogen storage capability to meet rising European demand,” said Dr. Hadi Moztarzadeh, Head of Technology Trends at APC. “By focusing on these innovation areas, we can fill supply chain gaps and scale up manufacturing to support up to 100,000 fuel cell trucks annually.”
Dr. Moztarzadeh added that while hydrogen fuel cells and storage technologies are on track, challenges remain around supply, infrastructure, and costs.
“The UK has the expertise, funding mechanisms, and industrial capability to take a leading role in hydrogen-powered transport, but scaling up will be critical to maintain competitiveness,” he said.
The APC report underlines that hydrogen fuel cell trucks and heavy vehicles are a cornerstone of the UK’s strategy to decarbonize the transport sector and drive clean energy innovation. By prioritizing R&D, supply chain development, and commercial deployment, the UK can secure its position at the forefront of the hydrogen mobility revolution.
