Jaguar Land Rover to develop hydrogen-powered Defender

Jaguar Land Rover is currently developing a prototype hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) based on the Land Rover Defender model. Testing is scheduled to begin this year.

According to Motorpress, the FCEV concept is all part of Jaguar Land Rover’s aim to achieve zero emissions by 2036, and net-zero carbon emissions across its supply chain, products and operations by 2039.

FCEVs generate electricity from hydrogen to power an electric motor. It is complimentary to battery electric vehicles (BEVS) on the journey to net-zero vehicle emissions.

Hydrogen-powered FCEVs provide a high energy density, rapid refuelling with a minimal loss of range in low temperatures, making the technology ideal for larger, longer-range vehicles, or those operated in hot or cold environments.

Ralph Clague, Head of Hydrogen and Fuel Cells for Jaguar Land Rover, said: “We know hydrogen has a role to play in the future powertrain mix across the whole transport industry, and alongside battery electric vehicles, it offers another zero tailpipe emission solution for the specific capabilities and requirements of Jaguar Land Rover’s world-class line-up of vehicles. The work done alongside our partners in Project Zeus will help us on our journey to become a net-zero carbon business by 2039, as we prepare for the next generation of zero tailpipe emissions vehicles.”

Since 2018, the number of FCEVs have increased on the road, while hydrogen refuelling stations have increased by more than 20%.

Jaguar Land Rover’s engineering project, known as Project Zeus, is part-funded by the government-backed Advanced Propulsion Centre, allowing engineers to understand how a hydrogen powertrain can be optimised to deliver the performance and capability expected by customers.

The zero tailpipe emission prototype new Defender FCEV will be testing towards the end of 2021 in the UK to verify its key attributes such as off-road capability and fuel consumption.

Picture: Motorpress