Evaluation of opportunities arising from hydrogen retrofitting of commercial vehicles in urban areas: a case study

The automotive industry has undergone a complex transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) systems to electric propulsion due to environmental and regulatory pressures. Urbanization and the growth of e-commerce have increased the demand for sustainable commercial vehicles, especially in urban centers. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) face range limitations for urban freight transportation, making fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles (FCHEVs) more viable for zero-emission solutions due to their range and rapid refueling. This study explores the retrofitting of diesel vehicles to FCHEVs as a transitional solution through a case study in Rome, Italy, assessing the technical feasibility of vehicle retrofitting using commercially available components. Representative urban routes have been analyzed to design an effective FCHEV architecture. Impact assessment metrics highlight the potential environmental and operational benefits of retrofitting for urban freight transportation in large cities.