Suzuki scooter first to earn European Whole Vehicle Type Approval
Suzuki Motor's Burgman Fuel-Cell Scooter has become the world's first fuel cell vehicle to earn Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA)in the European Union. WVTA is a pan European endorsement reflecting recognition of the scooter's high levels of environmental performance and safety).
The scooter debuted at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show in October 2009 and since February 2010, Suzuki and UK based company Intelligent Energy, which developed the vehicle's fuel cell system, have been jointly participating in trials on public roads under the sponsorship of the Technology Strategy Board. The trials are being conducted in the area surrounding Loughborough University using a single Burgman Fuel-Cell Scooter unit. Multiple units are due to be added.
The vehicle incorporates a light, compact, air cooled fuel cell and a hydrogen tank positioned inside the frame. Electricity produced by the fuel cell powers a motor for propulsion; the only emission is water. Suzuki is working toward commercialising it as a motorcycle with 'superior environmental performance'. According to the company, it aims to make eco friendly fuel cell scooters increasingly common in Europe in line with the establishment of hydrogen filling stations and other necessary infrastructure.
