Intelligent Energy (IE) commenced investment in development of a hydrogen fuel cell (FC) power system for class 3 order picker trucks to be used in material handling equipment (MHE) operations throughout UK & European intralogistics facilities.

FC power systems provide class 3 trucks with a rapid power response, zero emissions and extended run-times, providing multiple operating and cost benefits over lithium and lead-acid battery systems for high intensity 24/7/365 intralogistics operations.

The first stages of the product development and investment programme had progressed well. COVID-19 then disrupted product Verification activities. The Verification stage in the FC MHE product development programme is a necessary precursor to Certification. CE Certification is essential to allow UK -- European product sales which is a key outcome from the project

The project comprises 3 Work Packages to meet an 'as early as possible' market release date for the FC power system product. The risk of further disruption from COVID-19 spikes and local control measures has been acknowledged in the 6-month project duration.

Fuel cell power systems are sustainable in the context of intralogistics operations. FCs have zero emissions and high life cycle analysis (LCA) sustainability when used with green hydrogen. No hazardous, rare earth minerals or similar inputs are extracted for input to processing and FC production. Essentially all components of a FC and their packaging can be recycled, with no hazardous material disposal needed.

FC adoption in the intralogistics sector supports circular economy progress. The integration of FC-MHE fleets into intralogistics facilities will provide the basis for hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, facilitating introduction of FC van and truck fleets for local distribution and trunking services.

The project supports early stage post COVID-19 recovery for IE, for Verification services, and IE's materials and components supply chain. Longer term economic benefits will accrue through manufacture of the FC-MHE product in the UK.