Finally, answers to all the questions you have about the hydrogen bicycle.
What does H2 mean?
H2 is the chemical formula for hydrogen.
Indeed, it is the molecular form of the hydrogen element that exists in the gaseous state at normal conditions of temperature and pressure. Molecules contain two hydrogen atoms, hence the 2 behind the H. It is the lightest but also the most abundant element in the universe.
In the press and on the internet, it has become the common way to talk about cycling at Hydrogen.
What is an H2 bike?
First of all, it should be pointed out that the H2 vehicle does indeed belong to the family of electric vehicles.
Compared to a conventional EAV (Electrically Assisted Vehicle). It differs in the way the electricity is generated.
While a conventional electric vehicle is recharged at a power supply terminal, the H2 bike is filled via a dedicated hydrogen station.
How does it work?
In the H2 bike, there's a fuel cell.
Oxygen from the ambient air is brought into contact with hydrogen and the reaction between the two generates electricity which allows the bicycle to move forward. The bike only emits water vapour. This is why we talk about soft mobility without environmental impact.
What is the benefit of using hydrogen?
Hydrogen is one of the most widespread elements in the universe and potentially inexhaustible. It is therefore a promising future energy source in the context of the ecological transition. This is why we talk about innovative and environmentally friendly technology.
There is also a technical interest in its use.
In fact, the H2 hydrogen bicycle can be filled much faster than a conventional electrically assisted vehicle. In a few minutes you can recharge your bike against several hours.
The autonomy is also greater, 150 km for an H2 bike compared to 50 km for a classic VAE.
For the user, this is a real benefit.
Where does hydrogen come from?
Although hydrogen is widely distributed in the atmosphere, it is rarely alone and more often associated with other elements. It is therefore necessary to act to dissociate the molecule and produce pure hydrogen.
Today, there are 3 types of hydrogen.
- Grey hydrogen, which is derived from hydrocarbons. The process of dissociation of the hydrogen molecule produces carbon dioxide.
- Hydrogen is produced from organic waste and algae and generates less carbon.
- Green hydrogen produced by electrolysis using decarbonated energies such as solar energy.
Why is it called a decarbonised vehicle?
This somewhat barbaric term indicates that the H2 hydrogen bike has a zero carbon footprint.
It therefore allows for travel without impact on the planet, unlike conventional cars, also known as thermal cars.
What about security?
All vehicles using hydrogen must be tested and approved according to French and European standards.
A safety button is also provided to block the hydrogen supply to the battery if necessary.
H2 bikes are therefore considered to be as safe as conventional electric bikes.
Why aren't there any more?
As this is still an innovative technology, the number of hydrogen dispensers is still limited.
Pragma Mobility is aware of this. It offers turnkey solutions with its partners with bikes and recharging solutions.
For private individuals it is also possible to purchase a mobile station for personal use. This station called Hylight allows you to charge your bike from a hydrogen tank.
Who's it for?
Today, it is mainly local authorities and companies that are turning to this innovative technology because it is more attractive to invest in a fleet of vehicles.
However, according to recent studies, the cost should decrease in the near future thanks to the development of hydrogen production, networking and distribution as well as dedicated equipment. A democratisation of this type of vehicle is therefore already underway.