BONN/BERLIN: May 24, 2019. DHL Express has ordered 100 fuel cell augmented electric vans from manufacturer StreetScooter for delivery by 2021. The new ‘H2 Panel Van’ will become the first 4.25 tonne electric vehicle with an added fuel cell, which will provide more power and a range of 500 kilometers.

The van, developed in collaboration with Ford, is based on the DHL Parcel StreetScooter WORK XL with a capacity of 10 cubic meters and a maximum payload of over 800 kgs.

DHL Express will operate the vehicle exclusively and Deutsche Post DHL says it has no plans to sell it to third parties.

“Openness to new technologies is key to our overall strategy, which is why we’re also supporting the use of this battery electric vehicle with additional fuel cell capability,” commented Andreas Scheuer, Germany’s Federal Minister of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI). “If we want to promote alternative drive systems for climate-friendly delivery operations, then we need to make sure these new vehicles are priced competitively and capable of good range.”

StreetScooter CTO Fabian Schmitt said the H2 has potential to be a breakthrough solution for electric vehicles. “We firmly believe that fuel cells will play an increasing role in electric- powered transport, since they can give battery electric vehicles the kind of range that is so important for so many customers,” he added.