Nomad Car Hydrogène H2 (NCH2)

In Normandy, we are the driving force behind the Nomad Car Hydrogène (NCH2) project. To date, it is the world's first project to retrofit a diesel-engined coach into a hydrogen-electric coach, which will run on the Rouen-Evreux Express line.

This is an operation consisting in adapting parts for a new need, usually by changing the technology without altering the function. On this project, the diesel engine will be replaced by an electric motor powered by a fuel cell that converts hydrogen into electricity.

Innovation rests first and foremost on the collective governance of the experiment with all players throughout the project.

7 thematic committees and 1 steering committee guide and inform all members to make this experimentation technical, scientific, sociological feedback and also provide continuing education solutions for our employees.

• Sustainable : increased vehicle lifespan to 20/25 years (instead of 14 years on average)
• Technical : validation of the retrofit technique with the replacement of the combustion engine and installation of the retrofit kit
• Zero emissions : technological optimizations to reduce all forms of emissions
• Relevant : the Evreux-Rouen Express line and its 380km/day operation demonstrates that H2 energy is optimal for long journeys
• Societal : citizen co-construction around H2 mobility issues
• Committed and rooted in the region : unique governance in conjunction with all partners to monitor the project over 3 years with the use of local companies and skills
• Decarbonized : moving towards green H2 refueling at the Vieil-Evreux refueling station
• Environmental : studies of environmental benefits and pollutant emissions over a complete H2 cycle, from hydrogen production to consumption in operation (well-to-wheel study) 

Retrofit - adaptation and optimization of a hydrogen retrofit kit to enable its application on an IVECO Crossway coach. The current vehicle's internal combustion engine is then replaced by the hybrid system (H2/electric) fitted with a fuel cell. The engine block and diesel tank are removed.

Regulations - The vehicle's homologation route is completed in order to obtain approval from the Centre National de Réception des Véhicules (CNRV) as required by the Arrêté du 13 mars 2020.

Fueling - The HyMob EAS station at Vieil-Evreux is updated to enable daily recharging of the prototype coach.

1. Hydrogen tank
2. Fuel cells
3. Battery batteries
4. Electric motor
5. Transmission

365 days/year and 380 km traveled/day

After a test run without passengers, the bus will then enter service in April 2024 for a phase of operation under real conditions with passengers on the regular Nomad CAR Express Rouen-Evreux route.

Greenhouse gas emissions and atmospheric pollutants are then measured to compare the impact on climate and air quality of the retrofitted hydrogen coach versus the diesel coach. A life-cycle analysis is also carried out to assess the prototype's environmental footprint, from well to wheel. In other words, from the production of hydrogen to its consumption on the road.

An ongoing training module for drivers is being developed to help them get to grips with the retrofitted vehicle during the experimental operation phase.

The project also includes the development of a participatory research protocol co-constructed with all willing parties (travelers, drivers, local residents, road users, etc.) in order to produce a civic and responsible analysis of hydrogen uses.

Study on the medium-term possibility of switching the Vieil-Evreux station's supply to green hydrogen, produced from renewable energies.