Output details

Design of second generation Microcab H2EV fuel cell, on-the-road vehicle

The first Microcab series was submitted for the last RAE. Since then, further congestion, pollution and depletion of earth’s resources mean that private car ownership is increasingly unattractive to individuals, and to local, regional and national governments. Although still immature, the “car share” market is increasing. The ambition was for the completely redesigned and reengineered Series Two Microcab H2EV to form “car share” fleets, thereby reducing the need for private car ownership. Market research, real world testing and dissemination of the H2EV concept in industrial and policy making fora, have been used to refine the concept – from design, through to business development and context of use, creating an environment favourable to H2EV fleets.

When considered in its entirety (vehicle, business concept and new mobility paradigm), the H2EV is at the forefront of low carbon vehicle research. Demonstrator projects (e.g. EU funded SWARM, UK funded CABLED) have supported iterative design and manufacturing cycles, incorporation of new fuel types and more importantly real world trials, where vehicles are used in different scenarios. A greater understanding has been formed thereby of sustainable, integrated mobility.

Research into user needs and a critical evaluation of traditional, unsustainable methods of vehicle design and manufacture have led to further breakthroughs. The H2EV’s construction and light weight materials enables it to be customisable and reconfigurable, thereby ensuring greater sustainability of the vehicle (20 years plus). Currently supported by LOTUS, the H2EV draws on a local supply chain for its development. Localised production offers a commercially viable, proven alternative to the current market dominance by automotive manufactures and continues to be informed by, and inform local, economic regeneration (a model which has received global recognition e.g. Denmark, Croatia, South Africa).