HVS (Hydrogen Vehicle Systems) has announced that it has begun prototype manufacturing at a specialized facility in Silverstone in Northamptonshire, UK, marking a significant milestone for the commercial vehicle manufacturer.
The company is constructing several attribute prototype (AP) test vehicles as part of its vehicle development program, moving closer to series production of its hydrogen fuel cell HGV.
HVS has partnered with Fablink, a UK based Tier 1 supplier specializing in the manufacture of metal pressings, operator cab assemblies, fuel and hydraulic tanks and complex structures as well as ‘clean build’ of vehicle assemblies. Fablink’s 18,000ft2 provides comprehensive build capabilities, including quality assurance, logistics, a toolroom and office amenities; the company will provide HVS with the manufacturing of cab structures, chassis and power towers and provide assembly services.
Lisa-Marie Cunningham, HVS interim chief operating officer, said, “The Fablink team and facility provides us with the space, all the equipment and expertise essential for our build operations. This next project phase in Silverstone, home of automotive excellence, combined with the support of our exceptional team and manufacturing partners, positions us perfectly to successfully deliver our prototype program.”
The manufacturing process is being supported by additional partners such as HSSMI.
HVS has completed the initial build of the first of the prototype rigs at the Silverstone site, which will shortly be despatched for initial rig testing to UTAC, Leyland, which specializes in vehicle interior tests and dynamic tests for heavy vehicles.
The build of several other APs is now underway. Each unit will be used to test specific attributes of the truck design, from strength and durability to the range and efficiency of the vehicle ahead of series production.
Lindsay Watson, Fablink’s chief technical officer, said, “Fablink prides itself in offering a depth of engineering and technical capability alongside strong competencies in design, tooling and prototyping. It is therefore a pleasure to be working with HVS on this landmark build project where we can share engineering excellence.”
Satwik Mehta, HSSMI’s engineering director, said, “We are incredibly pleased to work with HVS to optimize their manufacturing processes and assist in the production of these prototypes in a high quality and efficient way.”
Keep an eye out for an exclusive interview with HVS’s chief technical officer, John McKenna, in the June Issue of Automotive Testing Technology International.
