The Renault Group and Plug Power's joint-venture dedicated to hydrogen mobility – Hyvia – launched in June last year has inaugurated its first plant at Refactory, Renault Group's manufacturing site for the circular economy located in Flins, Ile-de-France.
By the end of 2022, the plant is expected to have a fuel cell assembly and testing line based on Plug Power's advanced technology, with a capacity of 1 000 fuel cells per year. The H2 refueling station assembly line will also begin, the company said, along with the supply of H2 with the installation of a 1MW electrolyzer that will supply H2 to the plant (450 kg H2 / day) for testing fuel cells and H2 refueling stations.
David Holderbach, CEO of Hyvia, said, "Since its creation on June 3, 2021, HYVIA is moving fast. Our plant represents a major human, technological and industrial challenge. It is a fantastic illustration of our unique joint venture: we join the expertise of Renault Group, a dominant player in the automotive industry, and Plug Power, a world leader in turnkey hydrogen and fuel cell solutions".
Hyvia claims the new plant is the first step in a wider industrial project towards developing an ecosystem for hydrogen mobility. A 30kW fuel cell is under development using Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) technology, based on Plug Power's technology, will power Renault Master H2-TECH portfolio that includes van, chassis cab, and city bus vehicle platforms.
"Hyvia plant is part of the Re-energy pillar of our strategic Refactory plant in Flins. Its ramp-up embodies Renault Group's strong ambitions in H2 mobility, complementary to electric mobility. It will contribute to increasing local integration, creating value in France and Europe", said Luca de Meo, Renault Group CEO.
HYVIA confirms its anchoring based in France and the deployment of its complete solutions for hydrogen mobility. The company aims to reach 30 percent of the LCV H2 European market by 2030.
CEO of Plug Power Andy Marsh said, "Plug Power is proud to see the assembly of its fuel cell here in France. We have been present in Europe for more than 10 years, being a major investor in the development of the European H2 sector. We have accelerated our growth with HYVIA, in partnership with Renault Group. Together, we're taking meaningful steps to tackle climate change".
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