­ First Hydrogen Corp. announced the start of month-long vehicle trials with gas distribution network, Wales & West Utilities (WWU). First Hydrogen's hydrogen fuel cell powered vehicle (FCEV) has been designed to meet the needs of fleet operators such as WWU, who are seeking a zero emissions vehicle that can manage long distances, carry heavy payloads and tow, with fast refuelling.

First Hydrogen's FCEV achieves more than 630km or 400 miles on a single refuelling. WWU operates 24 hours a day, year-round to deliver vital gas network services. The First Hydrogen trials are taking place during winter, WWU's busiest period for emergency call-outs.

Typically, cold temperatures can reduce the range for battery electric vehicles (BEVs), affecting fleet operators' reliability. The trials could also generate data to indicate the FCEV's advantage over BEVs in lower temperatures depending on the weather over the next month. WWU supplies gas to more than 7.5 million customers across Wales and the south west of England.

The trials commenced with training for WWU's drivers, enabling them to safely operate the vehicle and understand its technical differences. While completing First Hydrogen's Driver Training accreditation scheme, WWU's drivers performed manoeuvres with the vehicle and even completed a call out to a WWU customer's residence. Importantly, the drivers also practised refuelling the vehicle with green hydrogen, supplied by Protium Green Solutions, at Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions' refuelling unit.

Both organizations have helped to develop a hydrogen ecosystem to support First Hydrogen's trial with WWU.