Latest news with #zeroemission
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
FleetCheck calls for UK to match EU hydrogen station targets
FleetCheck is urging the UK Government to align with European Union (EU) targets to establish a hydrogen filling station nearly every 200km on major roads by 2030. According to the fleet software specialist, this aims to maximise zero-emission fuel options for vehicle operators, addressing infrastructure gaps that hinder hydrogen adoption. FleetCheck CEO Peter Golding highlighted the issue at a recent hydrogen summit, noting BMW's reluctance to introduce its new fuel cell model to the UK due to inadequate infrastructure. He said: 'We are in a situation where an almost complete absence of infrastructure means we are in danger of being left behind when it comes to hydrogen, even though there seems to be general agreement among fleets that it has a definite role to play in the future.' Golding explained that Hydrogen is seen as a promising option for commercial vehicle operators, where battery electric vehicle adoption faces challenges related to range and payload. Electric van adoption has been slower than anticipated, with operational issues persisting for some fleets. Vauxhall's new hydrogen van, offering a range of approximately 400km and five-minute refuelling, presents a viable zero-emission alternative. However, the lack of refuelling stations limits its practicality unless fleets can afford to bunker fuel. Golding emphasised the need for a balanced government approach promoting diverse zero-emission fuel options. He stated: 'It seems obvious to operators that some fuel choices are more suitable for certain applications, but the UK Government approach appears to be almost entirely centred on battery electric vehicles, simply because they are available here and now. Following recent amendments to the ZEV Mandate, which grant the motor industry additional flexibility, the hydrogen sector stands to gain, potentially attracting investment in infrastructure development. Golding concluded: 'UK fleets should be calling for this to happen." "FleetCheck calls for UK to match EU hydrogen station targets" was originally created and published by Motor Finance Online, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Austin, Texas, tests autonomous transit bus
This story was originally published on Smart Cities Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Smart Cities Dive newsletter. The Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority of Austin, Texas, conducted a demonstration in May of the first automated 40-foot electric transit bus in North America. The retrofitted bus successfully maneuvered through the authority's North Operations and Maintenance Facility, reacting appropriately to unexpected obstacles, according to engineering services company WSP. WSP conducted the demonstration to evaluate the operational benefits of autonomous buses, such as more effective use of bus yard capacity. Automated bus depot operations could help cut costs for zero-emission fleets, WSP said. CapMetro had planned to fully electrify its transit bus fleet by 2035, but it has encountered setbacks including the bankruptcy of one of its bus suppliers, reliability and range issues and charging capacity at its main bus depot. Automated bus depot operations could help cut costs for zero-emission fleets, WSP said. The technology could increase existing bus yard capacity up to 90% while also improving safety for drivers, mechanics and other workers, according to a WSP news release. The demonstration bus meets SAE Level 4 driving automation standards, which do not require a human driver but are limited to specific service areas. During the demonstration, the bus had to park with great precision. 'The most complex maneuver sent the autonomous bus to drive and park underneath an overhead pantograph charging dispenser – within just five to seven centimeters of accuracy – and initiate a charging session, all without anyone behind the steering wheel,' Severin Skolrud, vice president, critical and emerging technology, national transit and rail at WSP in the U.S., said in a statement. Possible next steps for the CapMetro program include adding three battery-electric buses to the system on a multiyear deployment, according to WSP. New automated dispatch software could remotely start and precondition the buses and send them to a designated area where operators could perform their pre-trip inspections. Similar projects and studies are underway in Europe. One project in Sweden with software engineering firm Unikie and Nordic public transportation company Nobina will look into the impacts of automated bus depots on work organization and safety routines. Volvo Buses also is developing and testing autonomous technology; it says it sees bus depots as providing the most initial potential for automation. Recommended Reading Public transit ridership hits post-pandemic high: APTA report Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Sustainability Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Sustainability Times
Europe Stuns the World as $134 Billion Hydrogen Project Turns Into Earth's Largest Construction Site, Surprising the U.S.
IN A NUTSHELL 🌱 The construction industry is shifting towards sustainability by adopting hydrogen fuel cells as a cleaner alternative to diesel generators. as a cleaner alternative to diesel generators. 🚧 The HS2 project in the UK exemplifies how hydrogen technologies can be integrated into large-scale construction sites. in the UK exemplifies how hydrogen technologies can be integrated into large-scale construction sites. 🔋 GeoPura is leading hydrogen innovation, aiming for a zero-emission construction industry with their hydrogen power units. is leading hydrogen innovation, aiming for a zero-emission construction industry with their hydrogen power units. 💰 Despite its promise, hydrogen faces economic challenges, such as high costs and logistical complexities, which must be overcome for widespread adoption. The construction sector is undergoing a profound transformation as it seeks to reduce its environmental footprint. Hydrogen fuel cells are emerging as a promising alternative to traditional diesel generators, offering a cleaner and more sustainable energy source. The HS2 project in the United Kingdom serves as a compelling example of how hydrogen technologies can be integrated into large-scale constructions, potentially revolutionizing the industry. This article explores the rise of hydrogen as a clean energy source, the innovations at the HS2 site, GeoPura's role in advancing hydrogen technology, and the economic challenges that lie ahead. The Rise of Hydrogen Fuel Cells in Construction The adoption of hydrogen fuel cells in the construction industry marks a significant shift from conventional energy sources. Companies like GeoPura are at the forefront, aiming to replace carbon-intensive diesel generators with cleaner alternatives. Hydrogen generators not only provide a sustainable energy solution but also help to decarbonize one of the most polluting sectors. Despite this promise, 2024 witnessed several hydrogen-focused enterprises grappling with scalability issues, raising questions about the technology's viability. Nevertheless, the HS2 project in the UK illustrates the practical application of hydrogen in construction. As a massive infrastructure development, it utilizes hydrogen fuel cells to power its operations, demonstrating the feasibility of integrating these technologies into extensive projects. The potential for hydrogen in construction is significant, yet widespread adoption will require overcoming substantial economic and logistical barriers. 'NASA Eyes Game-Changing Breakthrough': These Sodium-Air Fuel Cells Could Soon Power Full-Size Passenger Jets Across Continents Innovative Energy Solutions at the HS2 Site The HS2 Victoria Road construction site in London is pioneering the use of hydrogen fuel cells, showcasing the potential for emission-free construction. Two white containers, housing hydrogen fuel cells, provide the necessary energy to power the site. This revolutionary energy solution could set a precedent for future construction projects aiming to reduce carbon emissions. Hydrogen is often referred to as the fuel of the future. Its abundance and high energy content make it an ideal candidate for powering heavy industries. When hydrogen is used, the only byproduct is water, eliminating carbon emissions entirely. The HS2 project serves as a real-world application of hydrogen fuel cells, offering a glimpse into a sustainable future for the construction industry. 'I Built a Laser from Hell': YouTuber Unleashes World's Strongest Handheld Beam That Instantly Melts Metal and Ignites Anything GeoPura's Vision and Business Model GeoPura, in collaboration with Siemens Energy Ventures, is leading the charge in hydrogen innovation. Established in 2019, the company focuses on producing renewable hydrogen and supplying it through hydrogen power units (HPUs) to various sites. By 2025, GeoPura aims to expand its fleet to 3,600 HPUs by 2033 and invest significantly in green hydrogen production facilities. This ambitious growth plan underscores GeoPura's commitment to a zero-emission construction industry. Their business model emphasizes efficient hydrogen production and distribution, making it accessible for diverse applications. As hydrogen production costs decline, the economic viability of these solutions becomes increasingly evident, bringing the industry closer to a cleaner energy landscape. 'Electric Car Batteries Just Leveled Up': These 2025 Breakthroughs Are Slashing Charging Times and Doubling Driving Range Economic Challenges and Future Prospects Despite its potential, the deployment of hydrogen in the construction sector is not without challenges. The high cost of hydrogen compared to diesel presents a significant economic hurdle. Furthermore, the logistics of producing and distributing hydrogen add another layer of complexity to its adoption. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. Initiatives led by companies like GeoPura are working to reduce production costs, and ongoing innovations in the field are paving the way for a less polluting construction industry. As more corporations invest in hydrogen technologies, the sector may undergo a green revolution. The pressing question is: how quickly can these changes be implemented, and what impact will they have on the industry's carbon footprint? The potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source for construction is undeniable. With initiatives like the HS2 project leading the way, the industry is gradually moving towards more sustainable practices. However, the path to widespread hydrogen adoption is fraught with economic challenges. As we look ahead, the question remains: will hydrogen fuel cells truly transform the construction industry, and what innovative solutions will emerge in the process? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (23)
Tahawul Tech
3 days ago
- Business
- Tahawul Tech
UK to explore ‘clean' air travel
The UK government has announced its intent to back research into zero-emission flying, laser-beam manufacturing and cutting aircraft drag, to help boost the sustainability of the country's aerospace industry. Britain said they would invest the sum total 250 million pounds ($340 million) in green air travel technology. Britain said the funding for research and development projects led by Airbus, Rolls-Royce and a number of smaller companies and academic partnerships, would attract more private investment into the sector and add new jobs. Industry Minister Sarah Jones is due to announce the new funding at the Paris Airshow, backing a number of projects which include the development of infrastructure for testing liquid hydrogen systems, fuel cell systems and developing lightweight materials. The funding announcement came ahead of the government's industrial strategy and which will aim to help grow the country's defence and advanced manufacturing sectors. Jones said supporting the major contractors was 'incredibly important', but the government also wanted to encourage more start-ups in the sector. 'Getting the supply chain of smaller businesses ready is the challenge, and that's what we want to build up in the UK,' she said in an interview. Airbus UK chairman John Harrison said the funding gave the industry the confidence and stability needed to fuel innovation. 'It's initiatives like these that are absolutely critical to accelerating our decarbonisation journey and advancing sustainable, cutting-edge manufacturing,' he said. Source: Reuters Image Credit: Stock Image
CNA
4 days ago
- Business
- CNA
UK invests $340 million in clean tech for air travel
PARIS :Britain said it would invest 250 million pounds ($340 million) in technology to make air travel greener, backing research into zero-emission flying, laser-beam manufacturing and cutting aircraft drag, to help boost the country's aerospace industry. Britain said the funding for research and development projects led by Airbus, Rolls-Royce and a number of smaller companies and academic partnerships, would attract more private investment into the sector and add new jobs. Industry Minister Sarah Jones is due to announce the new funding at the Paris Airshow on Tuesday, backing a number of projects which include the development of infrastructure for testing liquid hydrogen systems, fuel cell systems and developing lightweight materials. The funding announcement came ahead of the government's industrial strategy, expected to be published later this month, and which will aim to help grow the country's defence and advanced manufacturing sectors. Jones said supporting the major contractors was "incredibly important", but the government also wanted to encourage more start-ups in the sector. "Getting the supply chain of smaller businesses ready is the challenge, and that's what we want to build up in the UK," she said in an interview. Airbus UK chairman John Harrison said the funding gave the industry the confidence and stability needed to fuel innovation. "It's initiatives like these that are absolutely critical to accelerating our decarbonisation journey and advancing sustainable, cutting-edge manufacturing," he said. ($1 = 0.7351 pounds)
