Experience H2: The Linde H2 bike

The highlight of this pedelec (pedal electric cycle) developed by Linde lies in its source of power. The battery usually found on e-bikes is replaced by a compact fuel cell which generates electric power from hydrogen and oxygen taken from the surrounding air. This unique, highly efficient and zero-emissions drive system supports assisted pedalling over a range in excess of 100 kilometres with a single, 34-gram cylinder of hydrogen. The specially developed fuelling system means the cylinder can be refilled in less than six minutes.

It took Linde engineers less than three months to develop the project from the initial idea to a functioning prototype. Under the motto “I run on hydrogen”, the Linde H₂ bike proves that there is a viable alternative to conventional batteries in electric bikes, thus further increasing the appeal of what is already viewed as an environmentally friendly mode of transport. Like hydrogen-powered cars, fuel-cell bikes have the dual advantage of a long range and a short refuelling window of just a few minutes. What is more, they eliminate the need for traction batteries, which come with a limited lifespan and are difficult to dispose of.

The H₂ bike, which Linde will produce as a limited prototype series, runs on sustainable green hydrogen fuel. The hydrogen can be obtained through the electrolysis of water using wind energy or by reforming biogas. The carbon balance of the Linde H₂ bike is therefore significantly lower than that of a pedelec where the battery is charged using power of mixed sources drawn from the German energy grid.

In the past, Linde has proven its technology leadership with developments such as the ionic compressor – an innovative compressor concept enabling state-of-the-art hydrogen fuelling stations. 

Find out more about the Linde H₂ bike on our I RUN ON HYDROGEN Webpage.