Emil Rangelov, CEO of HV Systems and HVI Energy, who has been described as Scotland’s answer to Elon Musk, firmly believes that hydrogen-powered vehicles are the future of transport.

Next summer, HV Systems will test run one of its hydrogen-powered prototype vans from Glasgow to London (388-mile journey) without stopping to refuel.

The futuristic-looking eight tonne H2Van emits drinkable water gathered from vapour given off as it runs, making it one of the most environmentally friendly forms of transport.

Rangelov is confident that the van’s trial run will generate considerable interest in hydrogen fuel technology as no other green vehicle is currently able to travel such a distance without having to recharge.

H2Van Enjoys Longer Running and Shorter Refuelling Times

Inside the H2Van is a fuel cell that converts hydrogen and oxygen into water – a process that produces electricity to power the engine. The only other by-product of this process is heat.

The H2Van, which will have a storage capacity of around 20 cubic metres, can travel up to 500 miles on a single tank of hydrogen and has a refuelling time of just six minutes.

Rangelov believes it is these advantages over electric cars that will see hydrogen-powered vehicles overtake battery powered ones. However, he thinks it will take at least 20 years before they become a regular fixture on UK roads.

Purchase Cost of Hydrogen Powered Vehicles Much Higher

The cost of these vehicles is likely to be a barrier to their adoption as each van would cost two or three times more than a diesel equivalent, meaning only large haulage companies could afford them.

Rangelov is quick to note that the running and maintenance costs would be significantly lower meaning the long-term savings would make the vehicle a good investment.

While few car manufacturers in the UK have embraced this technology, its benefits become more apparent with regard to long-distance travel, which makes it ideal for transporting freight.

Delivery businesses have already taken notice of the tech. Courier business CitySprint undertook a six-month trial of a Renault hydrogen van with a range of 200 miles.

The UK Government has also shown support for the technology by investing £8.8 million into the trials of 200 hydrogen-powered vehicles, which will be used by Scotland Yard and car rental companies. Aberdeen has already successfully trialled a fleet of hydrogen powered buses, car club vehicles and taxis.