During the IAA 2024 in Hannover, Opel introduced the new Movano Hydrogen, an electric van powered by hydrogen fuel cells. The vehicle boasts a range of 500 kilometers (WLTP cycle) and can be refueled in just five minutes. The hydrogen is stored in four 700-bar tanks, but the innovation goes beyond just the propulsion system.
The Movano Hydrogen has been designed to maximize cargo space while maintaining volume, which reaches up to 17 cubic meters in the largest version. This is made possible by positioning the fuel cell system and hydrogen tanks beneath the vehicle’s floor. Even the more compact version offers a cargo space of 13 cubic meters, with a payload capacity of up to 1,370 kg.
At the heart of the Movano Hydrogen is a system that combines a 45 kW fuel cell with a 110 kW (150 hp) electric motor, delivering a maximum torque of 410 Nm. This ensures a smooth, quiet ride, with a top speed of 90 km/h. An 11 kWh lithium-ion battery, located under the front seats, kicks in to provide additional power during acceleration and to recover energy during braking.
The hybrid architecture allows the vehicle to accumulate electrical energy not only through regenerative braking but also via an external power source. This setup extends the electric range without always relying on hydrogen, making the Movano Hydrogen highly versatile, suitable for both short city trips and longer interurban journeys.