Design of a zero-emission metal hydride-based refueling station for H2-powered L6e light-duty hybrid vehicles

This study evaluates hydrogen’s potential to decarbonize light-duty transport by designing a zero-emission, off-grid refueling station for eight L6e-category hybrid quadricycles. Optimized for a 30(Formula presented) daily mileage per vehicle, the system integrates a 7.12[jls-end-space/]kWp photovoltaic plant, a 5[jls-end-space/]kW PEM electrolyzer, and a 6[jls-end-space/]kWh Li-ion buffer battery. To address intermittent solar production, an 800[jls-end-space/]kWh metal hydride storage system ((Formula presented) kg of H2[jls-end-space/]) is utilized, featuring phase change materials for passive thermal management. Results confirm technical feasibility with a 97.3% self-sufficiency ratio and a 69.5% overall production and storage efficiency. Annually, the infrastructure supports a 62,640(Formula presented) fleet range, reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 8.77[jls-end-space/]tons compared to gasoline alternatives. Furthermore, increasing mileage to 100(Formula presented) remains sustainable, requiring a PV area of 105[jls-end-space/]m2[jls-end-space/], which is compatible with standard parking surfaces. This demonstrates the viability of distributed, small-scale hydrogen infrastructure for urban logistics.