North-West University (NWU) has received a locally created mobile hydrogen refueling station from Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), and Hydrogen South Africa (HySA).
Launched in 2008, HySA is a national program of DSTI that aims to advance and direct research, development, and innovation in fuel-cell and hydrogen technology.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), in conjunction with the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) and Hydrogen South Africa (HySA), has delivered a locally engineered mobile hydrogen refueling station to North-West University (NWU).
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Established in 2008, HySA serves as a national DSTI initiative dedicated to the strategic advancement of research and innovation within the fields of hydrogen and fuel-cell technology.
The refueling station at NWU was developed through a collaborative effort between HySA Infrastructure and TSAM to facilitate the expansion of hydrogen-based mobility, with a particular focus on commercial transportation sectors.
Furthermore, the Toyota Mirai passenger vehicle functions as an active demonstration unit for the practical application of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle technology.
The refueller satisfies 42 national and international criteria and was created with South African engineering competence, EngineeringNews reports.
“Hydrogen is an important part of Toyota’s multi-pathway strategy for achieving carbon neutrality,” said TSAM new energy business development senior manager Anton Smalberger.
“This milestone is not only about new technology, but about building a viable hydrogen ecosystem that is safe, standards compliant and suitable for South African conditions.
As a company, we are happy to support government’s goals towards the decarbonisation of the transport sector.”
Speaking at the event, DSTI director-general Dr. Mlungisi Cele stated that the handover demonstrated how publicly funded research could be successfully translated into infrastructure that supports industrial development, skill development, and energy security, while facilitating the decarbonization of key economic sectors.
In addition to the refueller, the university’s establishment of a rapid prototyping, testing, and training facility is expected to enhance South Africa’s capacity for hydrogen innovation and facilitate the expansion of green hydrogen technologies within the nation.
“Hydrogen commercialisation requires collaboration, patience and credibility,” noted Smallberger.
“This project demonstrates that South Africa can move from research to reality, and that Toyota is committed to being part of that journey in support of the country’s just energy transition.”
