Miele, the manufacturer of domestic appliances, will be using a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle van in the Rhine-Main region of Germany.

Miele will be using a Vivaro-e Hydrogen, from Vauxhall’s sister brand Opel, which has a range of more than 249 miles (WLTP).

Uwe Hochgeschurtz, Opel CEO, and Marcus Lott, Head of Development, were present at the start of production in Rüsselsheim, Germany. Hochgeschurtz commented: “With the new Opel Vivaro-e Hydrogen we are opening the next chapter in our sustainable mobility offensive. The clever concept combines the advantages of hydrogen fuel cell propulsion with the versatility and capabilities of our best-selling light commercial vehicle.”

Marcus Lott, Head of Development, added: “The new Vivaro-e Hydrogen perfectly meets the requirements of fleet customers. The hydrogen van is the ideal solution for driving long distances with zero-emissions-in-use as well as for transporting larger loads without losing time while charging the batteries. The Opel Vivaro-e Hydrogen leads zero-emissions mobility into the future, especially for commercial use.”

Vauxhall is actively speaking to business customers in the UK now about Vivaro-e Hydrogen and expects right-hand drive vehicles to arrive from early 2023.

The 10.5kWh lithium-ion battery provides dynamic peak power when required, for example, at start-up and under acceleration. Since the battery covers power needs in such situations, the fuel cell can run at optimum operating conditions. The battery also enables regenerative braking, while the plug-in capability offers the opportunity to recharge the battery externally if necessary, e.g. at a charging station, providing 31 miles of pure battery electric range.

Thanks to smart packaging, the Vivaro-e Hydrogen demands no compromises on space compared to the combustion engine versions, offering up to 5.3m3 or 6.1 m3 of cargo volume. The fuel cell electric LCV is available in lengths M and L (4.95m and 5.30m) with up to 1,000kg of payload.