BMW and Airbus Spearhead €4.7bn Hydrogen Transport Initiative

The European Commission has recently given the green light to its fourth Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) centered around hydrogen technology, specifically focusing on transportation. The Hy2Move project is set to receive €1.4 billion in state funding to support research, innovation, and the initial industrial deployment within the hydrogen value chain for transport purposes.

With the substantial financial backing, the project aims to catalyze an additional €3.3 billion in private investments directed towards fuel cells for various modes of transportation, including buses, trucks, trains, and aircraft, as well as infrastructure such as storage and refueling stations.

Within the framework of Hy2Move, there are 13 distinct projects dedicated to integrating fuel cell vehicle platforms for buses and trucks, alongside the advancement of high-performance fuel cell technologies tailored for ships and locomotives. Moreover, the initiative will also focus on developing cutting-edge on-board storage solutions for hydrogen.

For aircraft applications, the projects will prioritize the creation of lightweight yet durable tanks to ensure safety and efficiency during flight, in addition to establishing on-site refueling stations capable of delivering pressurized, high-purity fuel-cell-grade hydrogen. Leading the charge in these endeavors are prominent companies like Airbus and BMW.

The Hy2Move IPCEI represents a crucial addition to the existing trio of IPCEIs related to the hydrogen value chain. While Hy2Tech, Hy2Use, and Hy2Infra concentrate on distinct aspects of hydrogen technology, Hy2Move stands out by exclusively addressing the challenges and objectives specific to mobility and transport applications.

Looking ahead, the completion of the comprehensive IPCEI initiative is anticipated by 2031, with individual project timelines varying based on the involved companies and their respective contributions. Collaboration will be a key driver of success, with participating companies set to work closely with each other, as well as with partners like Breuer Technical Development and over 200 indirect collaborators spanning universities, research institutions, and SMEs across Europe.

On a related note, the United Kingdom has recently revamped its efforts in the realm of electric vehicle (EV) batteries and hydrogen technologies. Recognizing the potential of hydrogen in enabling zero-emission transportation, the UK government has established task forces dedicated to advancing these technologies, aligning with the broader European push towards sustainable mobility solutions.

Commenting on the approval of the Hy2Move project, Margrethe Vestager, the Executive Vice-President overseeing competition policy at the Commission, emphasized the importance of collaborative initiatives like IPCEIs in driving innovation and addressing common objectives. The approval of Hy2Move underscores the significance of European cooperation in fostering breakthrough technologies while ensuring compliance with competition regulations.

Sources: European Commission