UK Car Manufacturers Push for Government Support in Hydrogen Infrastructure Development
Key Ideas
- Car manufacturers in the UK are frustrated with the government's lack of support for hydrogen infrastructure, urging for a strategy similar to the European Commission's plan for hydrogen filling stations.
- Experts and industry leaders, including those from BMW and Toyota, support the development of hydrogen refueling measures to offer consumers a choice between hydrogen fuel-cell and battery electric vehicles.
- BMW plans to launch its first hydrogen fuel-cell production model in 2028, highlighting the importance of infrastructure development for the success of hydrogen vehicles in the UK market.
- The UK government's current focus on battery electric vehicles is met with criticism from some car manufacturers who believe that a lack of support for hydrogen could slow down the transition to net zero emissions.
Car manufacturers in the United Kingdom have expressed frustration with the government's failure to support the development of hydrogen filling station infrastructure as an alternative to battery electric vehicles. The automotive industry is advocating for the UK government to align its ambitions for hydrogen fuelling networks with those set by the European Commission. The European strategy aims to have at least one hydrogen filling station every 120 miles on major routes by 2030, with additional facilities required in towns and cities with populations exceeding 100,000. Experts and industry leaders, such as David Wong from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, are urging the UK government to take action and remove road tax supplements for zero-emission vehicles to encourage hydrogen adoption. BMW has committed to launching a hydrogen fuel-cell production model in 2028, emphasizing the need for supportive infrastructure. However, challenges like towing and cold weather conditions have been highlighted, pointing to the necessity for comprehensive infrastructure development. While the UK government remains focused on battery electric vehicles, some manufacturers believe this approach may hinder the transition to net zero emissions if consumers do not have access to hydrogen options. Industry voices, like Jon Hunt from Toyota GB, stress the importance of consumer choice and technological openness in driving sustainable transportation solutions.
Topics
Europe
Automotive Industry
Net Zero Emissions
Electric Vehicles
Infrastructure Development
UK Government
Consumer Choice
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