Renault’s Hydrogen Master Van Takes Centre Stage

Published 17 September 2024

A Game Changer for Commercial Transport?

Renault has once again made headlines in the commercial vehicle market with not one but two significant announcements this week. Not only has the Renault Master scooped the prestigious International Van of the Year 2025 title, but the French automaker has also unveiled its hydrogen-powered Master H2-Tech Prototype at the IAA Transportation show in Hannover. The hydrogen variant of the Master promises to shake up the landscape of green transportation, offering a tantalising glimpse into the future of zero-emission commercial vehicles.

International Recognition

The new Renault Master, already a mainstay of the commercial van sector, claimed top honours at the International Van of the Year 2025 awards, edging out tough competition from the Ford E-Transit Custom and Stellantis ProOne Large Van. The panel praised Renault for its innovative design, robust technological features, and a multi-energy platform that offers unparalleled versatility across internal combustion engine (ICE), electric, and hydrogen models.

The victory marks the first time a hydrogen-powered van has received such acclaim. According to Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the International Van of the Year jury, the Master sets a new benchmark for future-proof commercial vehicles. Renault’s head of light commercial vehicles, Heinz-Jürgen Löw, echoed the sentiment, celebrating the award as a testament to the brand’s long-standing tradition of innovation and adaptability.

Master H2-Tech: The Future of Hydrogen Mobility?

While the Van of the Year title is a commendable achievement, it’s the introduction of the Master H2-Tech that could redefine the future of commercial transport. The hydrogen-powered van, developed in collaboration with HYVIA, a joint venture between Renault Group and Plug Power, boasts impressive specifications, with a range of up to 435 miles (700 km) on a single hydrogen fill. This extended range comes with a critical advantage—refueling takes just five minutes, making it highly efficient for businesses focused on minimising downtime.

The Master H2-Tech utilises a 30 kW hydrogen fuel cell and a 57 kW electric motor. The hydrogen is stored in four pressurised tanks, providing sufficient energy to either recharge the on-board 33 kWh battery or power the motor directly. Importantly, the integration of this technology into the Master platform does not compromise cargo space, with the largest L3H3 version offering up to 14.8 cubic metres of load volume and a payload of over 1,000 kg.

Why Hydrogen, and Why Now?

Renault’s decision to invest heavily in hydrogen mobility comes at a time when the commercial vehicle sector is searching for sustainable solutions that can match the capabilities of traditional diesel-powered vans. While electric vans have made significant strides, especially in urban areas, the heavy payloads and long distances that many commercial operators require can make pure electric options less feasible. This is where hydrogen comes into play.

Hydrogen technology offers two critical benefits: extended driving range and fast refueling times, both of which are essential for businesses that need to keep their vehicles on the road with minimal interruptions. The Master H2-Tech aims to meet these demands while emitting zero CO2 emissions, aligning with Europe’s tightening emissions regulations and growing environmental concerns.

In the UK, where hydrogen infrastructure is still limited, the increased range of the Master H2-Tech will provide some relief for operators. In contrast, France and Germany, thanks to their substantial government-led investments in hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, are likely to see the fastest adoption of the new technology. Through HYVIA, Renault also offers businesses the option to purchase or lease their own hydrogen refuelling stations, further reducing barriers to entry for this cutting-edge technology.

Challenges Ahead

While the potential of hydrogen vans is vast, Renault’s success will ultimately depend on the speed of hydrogen infrastructure development. Currently, the UK has just 16 hydrogen filling stations, and even in the more advanced markets of France and Germany, widespread access is still in its early stages. Nevertheless, Renault’s partnership with Plug Power—one of Europe’s leading players in hydrogen infrastructure—gives the company a significant edge.

The Renault Master H2-Tech will be built alongside the existing ICE and electric versions at the Batilly plant in France. A dedicated network of dealers trained specifically in hydrogen technology will also be established to ensure smooth sales and after-sales service.

What’s Next for the Renault Master?

Renault’s plans for the Master H2-Tech go beyond simply meeting current market demand. The prototype unveiled this week represents the automaker’s vision for the future of commercial vehicles, one where hydrogen plays a central role. The vehicle is expected to be available for purchase by the end of 2025, with Europe set as the primary market.

As the world moves towards cleaner, more sustainable modes of transport, the Renault Master H2-Tech could be a game changer, offering a zero-emission solution with the practicality and efficiency businesses need. While hydrogen may not yet be a widespread fuel source, Renault’s bold step forward with the Master H2-Tech might just be the push the industry needs to fully embrace the potential of hydrogen power.