Zero Carbon Fuel Cell Electric Light and Heavy-Duty Ground Transportation

This research project aims to conduct a comprehensive technical feasibility study on the utilization of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) across a range of Air Force mission sets and requirements. The study will encompass light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks, assessing their potential to enhance operational efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and contribute to energy security within the Air Force and Department of Defense (DoD) frameworks. The study will be conducted in parallel with a pilot commercial facility in Denver, Colorado, set to commence operations in 2024. This facility will provide valuable insights and real-world data that will inform the design and development of Air Force and DoD-specific FCEV systems and services. The research will focus on several key areas: Performance Analysis: Evaluating the performance of FCEVs in various operational scenarios, including range, refueling time, payload capacity, and durability under different environmental conditions. Infrastructure Requirements: Assessing the necessary infrastructure for hydrogen production, storage, and refueling, considering the unique requirements of Air Force bases and operational sites. Cost-Benefit Analysis: Comparing the total cost of ownership and operational costs of FCEVs with traditional diesel vehicles, taking into account fuel costs, maintenance, and potential savings from reduced carbon emissions. Environmental Impact: Analyzing the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and the potential contribution of FCEVs to the Air Force's sustainability goals. Safety and Regulations: Investigating safety protocols and regulatory compliance for the handling and storage of hydrogen fuel, as well as the safe operation of FCEVs in military settings. Integration with Autonomous Systems: Exploring the compatibility of FCEVs with autonomous technologies for unmanned logistics and surveillance operations. Scalability and Adaptability: Assessing the scalability of FCEV deployment across different mission sets and the adaptability of the technology to future advancements in hydrogen fuel and fuel cell technologies. The research project will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the feasibility of integrating FCEVs into the Air Force's vehicle fleet. The findings will guide strategic decisions regarding the adoption of zero-emission vehicles, contributing to the Air Force's and DoD's objectives of enhancing operational capabilities, reducing environmental impact, and achieving energy independence. The collaboration with the pilot commercial facility in Denver will ensure that the study is grounded in practical experience and real-world applications, facilitating the transition of FCEV technology from commercial to military use.