A new project researching the feasibility of a hydrogen-powered fire engine has begun.
The project will see hydrogen-fuel engineering firm ULEMCo partner with Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service.
Funding for the project comes from Innovate UK under the Transition to Zero Emission project.
Rob MacDougall, chief fire officer for Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service is absolutely committed to act towards our net zero target and building on the work we have already done to move part of our fleet away from internal combustion engines.
“Heavy fire engines pose a particular challenge and we feel that hydrogen-powered fuel-cells can play a promising role in delivering on the county’s climate action ambitions.”
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The eight-month research project will involve creating a detailed model of the hydrogen energy requirement. This will include the energy needed to pump water for a minimum of four hours, as well as the optimal range for such a vehicle.
The test process will gather real-world data based on the performance of a fuel-cell over the course of the project.
ULEMCo will design the hydrogen fuel-cell electric powertrain for the fire engine, with the goal being a full specification and detailed engineered design for a prototype vehicle.
According to the council, this will enable the next stage of development, which will involve the production of a prototype.
Alongside the study, the Oxfordshire County Council will develop a plan for the hydrogen refuelling requirements across its fire and rescue service, and wider plans to develop a hydrogen infrastructure across the county.
The project comes as the county council works towards becoming a net zero carbon local authority by 2030 for its own operational emissions.
