The ix35 Fuel Cell – one of the UK’s first hydrogen fuel cell fleet vehicles – has been leased to the university by Lex Autolease, and will be used for staff transport and as part of the chauffeur service for visitors. 

It will be powered by an onsite hydrogen fuelling station, unveiled in 2008 to support work carried out at the university’s Centre for Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Research. 

The university already has around 20 electric vehicles – around one-fifth of its fleet – as it strives to reduce emissions across its estate.

Stuart Richards, director of hospitality and accommodation services at the university, said: “We are in a unique position here on our main campus in Edgbaston, with our own hydrogen refuelling station making it possible to employ new technologies such as the hydrogen fuel cell cars in our day-to-day activities. The university has long been renowned for pioneering research which results in practical applications to improve people’s lives and the use of this car as part of our regular fleet is a tangible example of how scientific research can be turned into reality.”

Robin Hayles, product PR manager for Hyundai Motor UK said, “We are very proud to be delivering this vehicle to the University of Birmingham, not only because of the university’s renowned experience within the hydrogen field but also as the vehicle will play a role in the day-to-day activity of the University’s existing fleet.

“We are also pleased to be building on our existing relationship with Lex Autolease and look forward to playing a significant role in increasing the number of ultra-low emission vehicles within the UK’s fleet sector.”