VAUXHALL is partnering with UK company Ryze Hydrogen to develop hydrogen charging infrastructure solutions for fleet operators, allowing businesses to run hydrogen vehicles and refuel them either on-site or at a located refuelling facility.

Vauxhall's partnership with Ryze forms part of the brand's wider hydrogen strategy, which will inform the development of a widespread and workable hydrogen refuelling infrastructure for companies running fleets across the UK.

The partnership announcement comes ahead of the Vauxhall Vivaro Hydrogen commencing fleet evaluation trials in the UK in 2024.

Later in 2024, orders will open for the hydrogen version of the Movano, Vauxhall's largest light commercial vehicle, ahead of first customer deliveries in 2025.

The Vauxhall Movano Hydrogen provides a solution for drivers wanting to travel long distances emissions-in-use-free with a range of up to 311 miles and can be refuelled with hydrogen in only around five minutes.

James Taylor, managing director of Vauxhall, said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Ryze to develop hydrogen refuelling solutions for customers across the country. Next year, our new Movano Hydrogen will be available for fleet and business customers to order, offering a new practical, long-range, zero-emissions vehicle. With the help of businesses like Ryze, drivers will be able to add hydrogen vans to their fleet trouble free and with accessible charging options at convenient locations."

Mark Gilks,head of business development - mobility atRyze, said: "Vauxhallis making hydrogen a key component of its net zero strategy. Ryze is at the forefront of green hydrogen production and supply and we are incredibly excited to be working withVauxhalland its customers on tailored solutions to their net zero ambitions.

"Every business is different and while some may want their own fuelling facility at their depot, others may be looking at a co-location solution, and that is where our experience comes in."

Hydrogen LCVs offer an effective zero-emission solution without compromise in payload capacity or refuelling times.

Large vans such as the Vauxhall Movano largely operate from depot to depot. Vauxhall's partnership with Ryze provides charging solutions for corporate fleet operators which require their own hydrogen refuelling stations.

Ryze Hydrogen is a UK company based in Oxford which operates affordable hydrogen distribution infrastructure for commercial vehicles.

Ryze is already involved in a number of projects including a low-carbon hydrogen production and dispensing facility, with accompanying hydrogen refuelling facilities in Bradford.