An on-board hydrogen generator, launched by h2gogo for retrofitting to petrol or diesel engined transit vans, trucks and buses, is being trialled by Grundon Waste Management.
The company, which has fitted the hydrogen generators to three of its waste and recycling trucks says it is looking to the technology to reduce emissions, increase engine efficiency and power output, and improve on fuel economy.
h2gogo's HRN3 unit runs on distilled water, which produces hydrogen on throttle/engine demand, eliminating the need for additional fuel storage tanks, other than a small distilled water tank.
The company explains that it works by injecting hydrogen into the engine's air induction tract, at the air filter end, which then follows the standard route to the engine, via intercooler and turbo.
This cycle results in the engine burning all fuel in the cylinder and cylinder head combustion chamber.
Tests at the Millbrook Vehicle Emissions Laboratory suggests that the hydrogen generator cuts CO, HC, PM (particulate matter), NOx and CO2 emissions by up to a 40%.
"We have been offered many new technologies, but this one caught our eye, because h2gogo has invested in the product with extensive trials, proving their concept at Millbrook, with positive results," comments Stephen Townsend, Grundon's group fleet engineer.
Additional trials are also due to commence shortly at: Heathrow Airport with BAA; bus and coach manufacturer Alexander Dennis, and the Metropolitan Police Service in London.