World first hydrogen-powered access platform launched
Intelligent Energy Limited’s (IEL) hydrogen fuel cells have been chosen by Niftylift and UK plant hire firm Speedy Hire to create a new zero-carbon hydrogen-powered access platform.
IEL’s IE-POWER 1 fuel cell modules have been fully integrated into the MEWPs, combining the clean and efficient performance of the Niftylift All-Electric with cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell technology. In doing so, continuous zero-emission operation is viable even when charging facilities are unavailable.
The zero-emission machines are designed to replace commonly used fuel-based vehicles and can run for up to 4-5 days on a single charge. They also offer reduced lifetime costs, AGM maintenance-free batteries, and onboard diagnostics.
IE-POWER 1 is Intelligent Energy’s class leading 1kW fuel cell modules for motive and man-portable applications. With a compact size and high level of robustness, these modules are ideal for integration into systems for use in materials handling equipment. The hydrogen fuel cell fully charges the batteries, doubling the All-Electric MEWPs range.
John Keely, Managing Director at Niftylift said, “With our new hydrogen-electric HR15E and HR17E, Speedy Hire can provide its customers with a long-term net-zero solution for on-site machine charging—a world-first and a massive step forward for the powered access industry.”
David Woolhouse, Chief Executive Officer at Intelligent Energy added, “It’s fantastic to see over 12 months of development work and collaboration come to fruition and achieve a world-first. The final product is a prime example of how hydrogen fuel cells can be used to support the construction industry in its drive towards net zero.”
Intelligent Energy Limited is focused on the development and manufacture of lightweight hydrogen fuel cell products ranging from 800W to 300kW+ for customers in the automotive, aerospace, generator, telecoms, materials handling and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) sectors.
The company is headquartered and manufactures in Loughborough in the UK, with offices and representation in the US, Japan, China and South Korea.
