© Verne

California-based hydrogen startup Verne has announced a major step forward in clean transportation. It has successfully tested its cryo-compressed hydrogen (CcH2) Class 8 truck in real-world conditions. This new hydrogen storage and delivery method solves problems that have slowed the adoption of hydrogen-powered trucks.

Improving Hydrogen Storage

Hydrogen has potential as a cleaner alternative to diesel, but storage and delivery have been challenges. Usually, hydrogen is stored as a compressed gas or as a liquid at very low temperatures. Verne’s CcH2 system combines these methods. This allows for 33% more hydrogen storage than liquid hydrogen and 87% more than 700-bar tanks.

The increased storage capacity means trucks can drive longer distances with fewer refueling stops. This is a big advantage over electric alternatives. Verne’s system also cuts hydrogen distribution costs by 40%. It reduces energy use during compression and lowers storage losses.

Real-World Testing

In late 2024, Verne tested its CcH2 truck in Southern California. The truck drove hundreds of miles and refueled multiple times. It performed well even in off-road conditions. These tests proved that the system is reliable in real-world use.

Verne’s CEO, Ted McKlveen, stressed the importance of this success. He said, “Efforts to cut carbon emissions are limited by the lack of clean energy options that meet operational needs. CcH2 can replace fossil fuels in some of the hardest-to-decarbonize sectors.”

Plans for the Future

The test results bring Verne closer to commercial use. In 2025, the company will start hydrogen distribution trials. These will focus on construction sites, ports, warehouses, and remote EV charging stations. Delivering hydrogen to these areas has been a challenge.

Verne’s bigger goal is to bring CcH2 storage to long-haul trucks. Longer range and lower costs could make hydrogen a strong alternative to diesel and electric vehicles.

Since 2020, Verne has made steady progress. It received ARPA-E funding in 2022 to improve cryo-compression. In 2023, it built a record-breaking 29-kilogram hydrogen storage tank at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. With support from Alberta Innovates and Diesel Tech Industries, Verne is becoming a leader in hydrogen infrastructure.