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Battery and fuel cell technology vans set for growth

Smith Electric Vehicles says it is trialling a small hydrogen fuel cell that could double the range of its battery powered electric vans and small trucks.
The company has signed a deal in the UK with German Proton Power Systems, under which both parties will build a battery-powered commercial vehicle, equipped with a PM200 fuel cell. Thomas Melczer, CEO of Proton Power, explains that the fuel cell will be used to top-up the batteries and support auxiliary vehicle functions, such as air conditioning and heating. It will also provide an on-board electrical supply, which will improve ease of maintenance. Work is due to start on Smith's Edison range of electric vans, currently in use with fleet operators such as Sainsbury's Online, Scottish & Southern Energy, TNT and the Royal Mail. The company says that initial focus will on German operators. It is already "in discussions" with the German Government-backed hydrogen and electric vehicle organisation 'Now' for 20 such vans.

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