Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is developing a prototype hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) based on its Land Rover Defender, the automaker has announced.
With testing scheduled to begin this year, the concept vehicle is part of the firm’s plan to achieve zero tailpipe emissions by 2036, and net zero carbon emissions across its supply chain, products and operations by 2039.
In February, JLR said it would stop building cars with internal combustion engines by 2025 matching similar commitments by other players in the sector like Ford and General Motors.
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JLR said its new FCEVs, which generate electricity from hydrogen to power an electric motor, will be built alongside “battery electric vehicles” rather than instead of.
Hydrogen-powered FCEVs provide high energy density, rapid refuelling, and minimal loss of range in low temperatures, making the technology ideal for larger, longer-range vehicles, or those operated in hot or cold environments.
“We know hydrogen has a role to play in the future powertrain mix across the whole transport industry, and alongside battery electric vehicles, it offers another zero tailpipe emission solution for the specific capabilities and requirements of Jaguar Land Rover’s world class line-up of vehicles,” said Ralph Clague, head of hydrogen and fuel cells at JLR.
Source: E&T