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Motoring and travel journalist, opinionated gob on a stick
Motoring

Renault steps on the gas

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Manufacturer joins hydrogen fuel cell project

Renault has taken a big step into the hydrogen fuel market in partnership with a leader in hydrogen fuel cell systems.Groupe Renault and Plug Power are set to work together to produce a hydrogen-powered light commercial vehicle

An agreement signed between the two companies will see them launch the joint venture by the middle of 2021.  The partnership is aiming for 30 per cent share of the fuel cell-powered light commercial vehicle (LCV) market in Europe

Based in France, the partnership will deliver state-of-the-art innovation and manufacturing capabilities for hydrogen fuel cell systems and their integration in vehicles

The partnership provides a unique proposition offering complete fuel cell vehicle solutions with hydrogen fuel, refueling infrastructures and services to customers

This strategic project supports the uptake of more sustainable mobility in Europe with the adoption of clean energy solutions, positioning the Groupe as a key player in hydrogen fuel cell innovation

Groupe Renault and Plug Power Inc. – a global leader in fuel cell systems and hydrogen-related services – have signed a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) to launch a joint venture with the aim of becoming the leader in hydrogen fuel cell technology for light commercial vehicles (LCVs).

Based in France, the partnership will launch in the middle of 2021, positioning the two companies at the forefront of research and development, transformation, manufacturing and sale of fuel cell-powered vehicles and hydrogen turn-key solutions. The joint venture will serve the growing market for fuel cell LCVs, taxis and commercial passenger vehicles. 

Bringing the strengths of both organisations together, the partnership will combine Groupe Renault’s pioneering experience in new and sustainable energies as well as its strong position in electric light commercial vehicles with Plug Power’s20 years of experience in fuel cell technologies and hydrogen solutions. 

A global leader in hydrogen ecosystem solutions, Plug Power has deployed more than 40,000 fuel cell systems, designed and built 110 refueling stations that dispense more than 40 tonnes of hydrogen daily, and is a technology leader in green hydrogen solutions via electrolysis. 

The partnership intends to offer unique, comprehensive products and solutions to the LCV market. Groupe Renault and Plug Power will begin sales of fuel cell LCVs in Europe starting in 2021 with pilot fleet deployments.

Groupe Renault and Plug Power will provide thestandalone joint venture with the required resources to achieve its objectives.

The finalisation of this partnership is pending on the conditions normally applicable to this kind of operation, among which the presentation to employee representative bodies in accordance with applicable regulations and the potential clearance from the relevant competition authorities and should be completed by the end of the first half of 2021.

Motoring news

Red light to drivers on low fuel

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Low on fuel? Don’t wait for the warning light, urges motoring organisation GEM

Letting your car run out of fuel can have a catastrophic effect on its engine and can endanger other road users, a motoring organisation has warned.

Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is reminding motorists to ensure they avoid letting their car’s fuel tank get anywhere near empty. In particular, GEM urges those drivers who enjoy the challenge of seeing how far they can go with the fuel light on and a tank that’s close to empty.

GEM chief executive Neil Worth commented: “If you permit your car to run out of fuel, you risk serious damage to the engine as well as potentially putting yourself and your passengers at risk of a collision because you will not be choosing where the car finally gives up.”

Running out of fuel on a motorway is irresponsible as well as dangerous. Although it’s not an offence in its own right, there are cases where drivers have been prosecuted for driving without due care and attention – or without reasonable consideration for other road users – when a collision resulted from their running out of fuel and breaking down.

Neil Worth concludes: “Check you have enough fuel for a journey. If you need to refuel, plan where you will stop so there is no risk whatsoever that you will run out.”

Follow GEM on Twitter @MotoringAssist for the latest industry news.

  • GEM Motoring Assist was established in 1932, as an independent driver-based road safety association. GEM’s aim is to improve safety for all road users through the sponsorship and initiation of accident prevention measures throughout the UK and to provide motoring and safety information to its own members. Member benefits include a quarterly magazine, free literature and advice and discounts on insurances and other services.