Could we be saying goodbye to electric bikes (e-bikes) soon? Well, with the focus falling on the “going greener initiative”, it is clear that one such hyperbike may be showcasing hydrogen-powered bikes in a positive light. Driven to promote the hydrogen agenda is the Boon H2 created by Irish startup HubUR. Wrapped in futuristic flair, this hydrogen bike is set to begin a new revolution pushing the focus away from e-bikes.
Driving down the hydrogen pathway
While battery-powered e-bikes have long sustained the attention of motor enthusiasts, the challenges posed by these e-bikes were well-known. Demanding lengthy charging time and requiring lithium, which is linked with environmental damage, these two-wheelers were not without their flaws.
HubUR manufactured the Boon H2 to address the flaws of previously loved e-bikes by opting for an environmentally friendly alternative to lithium- a hydrogen fuel cell alternative. The Boon H2 features a removable hydrogen cartridge that contains a mere 20 grams of hydrogen at low pressure. Once the hydrogen gets transformed into electricity due to a fuel cell, the energy goes to the electric assist motor. A single hydrogen cartridge is thus enough to enable everyday journeys; however, all riders can ride with spare cartridges to make longer commutes a possibility.
An added advantage is that the Boon H2 will feature its own home electrolyzer. The electrolyzer will merely require water and electricity to generate its own hydrogen.
Boon H2 removing all possible hydrogen setbacks
While the ability to rely on hydrogen has always been a setback in the world of mobility, the Boon H2 completely removes the access to hydrogen setback with its electrolyzer that produces hydrogen in-house. An equally attractive feature of the Boon H2 is a 50 km range on offer per cartridge. Riding with many cartridges in tow will allow bike riders to ride for quite a distance without requiring a stop at the hydrogen refueling station.
Two cartridges increase the bike’s capacity to approximately 500Wh. The beauty part is the hydrogen solution proves more effective than batteries as these hydrogen cartridges can be cleaned, refilled, and easily swopped out should there be a need. By allowing for the swapping out of cartridges, the need to recharge these bikes regularly does not become an annoyance.
The bike becomes an option for everyday bike drivers and tourists who wish to drive for longer distances without major setbacks. With e-bikes banned for one group as of July 1, it is no wonder why this hydrogen bike will come in as an attractive option for many.
The Boon H2: A hydrogen generator in its own league
Boon H2 is incredible not only because it is a lightweight bike that weighs 25 kg and boasts 26-inch wheels, but also because it is a bike that comes equipped with a hydrogen generator, making refueling effortless. While that is an impressive feat, the Boon H2 draws from the traditional aspects that motorcyclists love, showcasing a Shimano Tourney derailleur and LCD, ensuring better control with comfort.
HubUR plans to sell these bikes for €6,000 (approx. $6,500), which is quite an attractive price tag for a bike that can recharge and refuel itself effortlessly without relying on the grid or hydrogen refill stations.
HubUR is proving that it is not only vehicles that should tap into the hydrogen dream but two-wheelers too. While a hydrogen bike merely signifies an upgrade in the fuel source, it does provide the message that transportation choices can lead to a more sustainable future too. Pushing e-bikes out of the way, this hydrogen-powered bike may be here to stay and may perhaps cause car manufacturers like Ferrari to reconsider their hydrogen dreams, too.
Disclaimer: Our coverage of events affecting companies is purely informative and descriptive. Under no circumstances does it seek to promote an opinion or create a trend, nor can it be taken as investment advice or a recommendation of any kind.
