Hydrogen fuel-cell SUV in the works at Jaguar Land Rover

In a move supported by a £73.5m Government-funded programme, Jaguar Land Rover is looking into developing a new SUV powered by hydrogen fuel-cell technology. 

Known as Project Zeus, the technology is being worked on in collaboration with British firms UKBIC, Delta Motorsport and Marelli Automotive Systems with a view to getting the technology to JLR customers faster. The project is still expected to be explored over a number of years, however.

A document issued by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy stated: “Working with world-class research and industry partners, Jaguar Land Rover is developing a prototype hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle. The project will deliver a zero-tailpipe-emissions premium fuel-cell SUV concept with Jaguar Land Rover attributes, such as long range, quick refill, towing, off-road capabilities and low-temperature performance.

“The project will help drive significant growth and capability in fuel-cell electric vehicle design and manufacturing, providing a competitive edge in intellectual property and supply chain for the UK.”

The news comes following Jaguar Land Rover's earlier focus on hydrogen technology, in the wake of the Jaguar I-Pace electric SUV's arrival. Ralph Clague was hired as the firm's new head of hydrogen and fuel cells in March 2019. 

There's no way to tell if and when a fuel-cell Jaguar Land Rover SUV will arrive on sale, but it's likely to be a few years off. For now, those wanting to try out the technology for themselves are limited to pioneering cars like the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai NEXO. A hydrogen-powered BMW X5 is also in the works.