The Queensland state government will trial five Hyundai NEXO hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs), with hydrogen manufactured by BOC Australia.
Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen and Minister for Public Works and Procurement, Mick de Brenni, said the three-year trial would help underpin the development of the state’s domestic hydrogen industry.
“This trial will accelerate our journey towards establishing Queensland as a renewable energy superpower,” he said.
“By demonstrating that lower emission technology is cost-effective, the Palaszczuk Government will lead the way in cleaner transport solutions while delivering value for money to taxpayers.
“Transport systems around the world are undergoing a major phase of transformation with the rise of electric vehicles.
“We are taking an active role in preparing for these transformations as we move towards cleaner transport solutions.”
The new vehicles will join the growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) already in the government fleet.
“We’ve got a QFleet Electric Vehicle Strategy in place to boost the number of EVs in the Government fleet,” de Brenni said.
“Our commitment is to double the number of EVs in QFleet each year, a target we are on track to meet.
“I will continue to ensure the shift to electric models as vehicles fall due for replacement over the coming months and years in order to lead the development of the EV and hydrogen sectors.
“The Nexus scored top marks in crash safety tests and is a terrific looking vehicle too.”
Negotiations are already underway with vehicle manufacturers to pave the way for early access to new models when released onto the Australian market.