Guidance Automation Trials Hydrogen Fuel Cell-Powered Autonomous Vehicle with Intelligent Energy
Guidance Automation has completed an autonomous vehicle trial with Intelligent Energy, demonstrating the iNcaart running entirely on a hydrogen fuel cell inside Intelligent Energy’s UK manufacturing facility.
The trial integrated Intelligent Energy’s lightweight, high-efficiency fuel cell module into the iNcaart platform, replacing the traditional rechargeable lithium power source. Running the demonstration within the facility where the fuel cells are manufactured provided a practical, real-world environment to validate the solution.
In this demonstration, the iNcaart is fitted with a Conveyor Top, and a range of bespoke tops can be designed to meet specific customer requirements – including options such as flow racks, lifters and robot arms.
Flexible Power Options for Autonomous Vehicles
Following the success of this trial, customers will have three flexible power configurations available:
- Lithium Battery Power – the established, widely used option
- Hydrogen Fuel Cell Power – delivering extended runtime and rapid refuelling to support continuous operation
- Hybrid (Hydrogen + Lithium) – hydrogen fuel cell provides supplementary charging for increased uptime
These choices allow organisations to align their power strategy with their facility requirements, sustainability goals and operational throughput.
A Cleaner Power Alternative
Hydrogen fuel cells generate zero harmful emissions at the point of use, producing only heat and water vapour. Pairing this clean technology with autonomous vehicle systems offers a compelling route for organisations looking to reduce environmental impact while maintaining efficient, reliable performance.
Throughout the project, Guidance Automation’s team worked closely with Intelligent Energy’s specialists to integrate and validate the fuel cell system, demonstrating its compatibility and readiness for future deployments.
Looking Forward
This successful demonstration highlights the growing role hydrogen can play in future automation and material flow strategies. Guidance Automation continues to explore innovative, sustainable technologies that offer customers increased flexibility and performance.
For more information about Intelligent Energy’s hydrogen fuel cell technology, visit: https://www.intelligent-energy.com/
