HydrogenXT stations are designed to produce hydrogen on-site, eliminating hydrogen delivery costs and increasing sales margins. In Steam Methane Reformation (“SMR”), high temperature steam produces hydrogen from a methane source, such as natural gas or RNG. With a catalyst, methane reacts with steam under high pressure producing hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and a relatively small amount of carbon dioxide.
Most of the hydrogen fueling stations are in California - home to 49 of 52 existing hydrogen stations, with 61 already approved. The largest operator has 32 stations in its current portfolio. At least 280 will be needed by 2025. The development of hydrogen refueling infrastructure is essential for mass-market adoption of hydrogen FCEVs.
Unlike HydrogenXT, existing hydrogen stations utilize off-site hydrogen supply sources, which are subject to additional delivery costs and timing constraints due to supply chain issues.
Depending on charging stations and battery capacity, fully electric vehicles for a full charge currently require 30 minutes to several hours. FCEV hydrogen tanks, on the other hand, are full and ready to go again in less than 5 minutes, bringing vehicle availability and flexibility into line with gas-powered cars.
With long-distance and high-power requirements, heavy-duty vehicles comprise over 60% of the hydrogen demand within ground mobility.
When used with large commercial vehicles, hydrogen FCEVs are particularly advantaged in comparison to BEVs. They save a great deal of weight, lowering operator costs, very important to logistics operators. Quick refueling also enhances operator cost structures with less down time, especially when fast or accurate delivery times are required.
As one real-world example, Anheuser Busch demonstrate the advantage of fuel cell trucks in beverage hauling, targeting maximum payload, range and around-the-clock operations and faster charging.
At least 25 HXT binding and pending letters of intent with existing gas stations will allow building on their sites while HydrogenXT seeks more locations with oil companies and truck stops.