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Powering London’s first hydrogen ambulance
23 July 2021
London’s first hydrogen-powered ambulance is set to take to the road later this year, carrying a hydrogen storage tank system developed by NPROXX, a subsidiary of Urenco’s joint venture ETC.
The prototype vehicle is currently being built as an example of what the future can hold for high-tech ambulances and it will be delivered to the London NHS trust service this autumn.
The design sees the hydrogen storage tank being located in the roof space of the ambulance, which will enable a low-floor chassis for easy patient access. The tank can store up to 8kg of compressed gas at a nominal pressure of 350 bar.
Named ZERRO (short for Zero Emission Rapid Response Operations), the prototype ambulance will be powered by a combination of a 30kW fuel cell, with NPROXX’s type IV pressure vessel and a 400V 92kWh battery. The fuel cell will act as a range-extender to charge the battery when needed. This will give the ZERRO an expected average daily range of 200 miles (320 kilometres) and a top speed of 90mph (145kph).
About Urenco
Urenco is an international supplier of enrichment services and fuel cycle products with sustainability at the core of its business. Operating in a pivotal area of the nuclear fuel supply chain for 50 years, Urenco facilitates zero carbon electricity generation for consumers around the world.
With its head office near London, UK, Urenco’s global presence ensures diversity and security of supply for customers through enrichment facilities in Germany, the Netherlands, the UK and the USA. Using centrifuge technology designed and developed by Urenco, and through the expertise of our people, the Urenco Group provides safe, cost effective and reliable services; operating within a framework of high environmental, social and governance standards, complementing international safeguards.
Urenco is committed to continued investment in the responsible management of nuclear materials; innovation activities with clear sustainability benefits, such as nuclear medicine, industrial efficiency and research; and nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers.
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