The Vauxhall Movano Hydrogen will launch in spring 2025, starting at £66,450 (after the plug-in van grant). This large van is Vauxhall’s second hydrogen-powered model, offering a range of 311 miles and a refuelling time of just five minutes.
The UK will receive the van in the well-equipped Prime trim, available in two sizes: L3H2 and L4H3. The Movano Hydrogen shares its platform with the Opel version showcased at the 2024 IAA Van Show, but Vauxhall will handle the UK release.
A Complementary Powertrain
Stellantis’s commercial vehicles senior vice president, Xavier Peugeot, described hydrogen technology as a supplementary solution rather than a replacement for electric vehicles (EVs). He highlighted hydrogen’s benefits for long-distance driving and rapid refuelling, particularly for users who can’t rely on depot or home charging.
Peugeot acknowledged the 311-mile range falls short of rivals like the Renault Master H2-Tech’s 435 miles but emphasized Vauxhall’s readiness: “If you want a mid-size hydrogen van, it’s available now. The same will apply to the large van shortly.”
Early UK Launch
Initially expected to follow the European launch, the Movano Hydrogen will now be available for UK orders in spring 2025. A right-hand drive version is confirmed for Q4 2025, with other Stellantis brands potentially introducing their own hydrogen vans later in the decade.
This follows the earlier Vauxhall Vivaro Hydrogen, which remains limited to left-hand drive.
Hydrogen’s Time-Saving Advantage
Despite limited UK infrastructure, hydrogen’s rapid refuelling is a key benefit. Stellantis UK’s Brad Miller noted that commercial fleets often face challenges with public EV charging. Some engineers reportedly spend hours weekly at public chargers, affecting work schedules and contracts.
Miller pointed out that hydrogen refuelling, which takes just five minutes, eliminates these issues. He also mentioned plans for more hydrogen stations in the UK, with new sites in St Helens and Millbrook opening in 2024. Element 2’s plan to establish 50 stations within five years will significantly expand the national network.
Depot-based refuelling solutions are also being developed for larger fleets transitioning to hydrogen.
Range and Performance
The Movano Hydrogen features a 45kW Symbio fuel cell paired with a 150hp electric motor producing 410Nm of torque. It includes an 11kWh plug-in battery, extending the range by 31 miles and providing instant torque. The battery recharges in 90 minutes using an 11kW AC charger.
With a combined range of 311 miles, the van balances hydrogen and electric power for optimal efficiency.
Pricing and Target Market
Initially aimed at businesses, the Movano Hydrogen starts at £70,400 (L3H2) or £72,020 (L4H3) before VAT. After applying the plug-in van grant, prices drop to £66,450 and £68,070, respectively. Over time, Vauxhall expects the model to appeal to private buyers as well.
