TARDEC to demo ZH2 fuel cell vehicle
The US Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) is set to hold a demonstration of the General Motors ZH2 Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) at Schofield Barracks later this month.
The demonstration will allow the US Army to evaluate capabilities of the ZH2 vehicle, a modified Chevy Colorado fitted with a hydrogen fuel cell and electric drive.
According to TARDEC, the ZH2 vehicle produces high torque and is equipped with 37in tyres that increase its off-road manoeuvrability to negotiate rough and steep terrain. When the vehicle is immobile, it can generate 25kW of continuous power or 50kW of peak power.
There are 120 and 240 volt outlets located in the trunk, allowing for silent power off-loading for base operations. The vehicle’s hydrogen fuel cell can produce two gallons per hour of potable water.
This is the final soldier user evaluation event to demonstrate technology on the ZH2. The soldiers at the brigade level will put the vehicle to rigorous testing within a larger operational training exercise involving a recon mission of enemy forces in jungle terrain.
The ZH2’s drive system does not produce smoke, noise, odour or thermal signature, allowing soldiers to conduct silent watch on the battlefield.
More from Land Warfare
-
EOS looks to improve CUAS capability as further development and deployment continue
EOS Defense Systems remote weapon stations (RWS) have been in service in Ukraine. The company has seen users deploy it for CUAS roles in a war where drones have been heavily used.
-
Textron to make improvements to Ripsaw M5 and M3 UGVs
The company has been partnering with several suppliers to enhance the autonomy of its platforms.
-
General Atomics’ Long-Range Manoeuvring Projectile nears testing
Designed for launch from 155mm conventional artillery systems, General Atomics’ latest missile could reach low-rate initial production by 2026.