Three Government departments have come together with utility, gas, infrastructure and automotive industries to investigate the infrastructure required for hydrogen vehicles. Working together they will investigate the requirements to establish the UK as one of the first markets for fuel cell-powered cars.

The group will evaluate the potential for hydrogen-fuelled ultra-low carbon vehicles. It is expected that this will lead to a roll out to consumers by 2014/15. Aims of the group include investigating the benefits in terms of reduced emissions from road transport; reviewing the investments necessary to establish a refuelling infrastructure; and look into the requirements for the UK to become a leader in fuel cell vehicle manufacture.

Business Minister Mark Prisk, speaking at the launch of UKH2Mobility, said:

"Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles are increasingly being recognised as one of the viable options as we move to a lower carbon motoring future. They are highly efficient, can be fuelled in minutes, travel an equivalent range to a conventional combustion engine, and have zero tail-pipe emissions.

"UKH2Mobility will bring together industry expertise to establish the UK as a serious global player in the manufacture and use of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles and the supporting infrastructure."

There are thirteen industry partners involved in the scheme along with The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills; The Department for Transport; and the Department for Energy and Climate Change.

John Lambert - 19 Jan 2012