Moroccan-Led NamX Unveils Hydrogen SUV with Innovative ICE Technology

Internal combustion engine (ICE). This is the engine chosen by NamX to equip its Huv, its first hydrogen SUV project. "This decision underlines NAmX’s pragmatic approach, which places a mastered technology at the service of its environmental commitment," the Franco-Moroccan manufacturer said in a press release, explaining that it is a question of "taking advantage of the benefits of a reliable and functional powertrain with controlled manufacturing costs in order to make premium hydrogen mobility truly accessible."

According to NamX’s explanations, the choice of ICE technology for hydrogen mobility is in line with the approaches adopted by the historical players in the automotive industry. "Like other established manufacturers, NAMX is betting on a proven technology that benefits from decades of investment and continuous improvement," the same source indicates, also stressing that "thermal hydrogen vehicles (HICE) do not present the main drawbacks of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEV) which require metals and rare earths for their manufacture."

The advantage of internal combustion engines is that they "offer greater stability and predictability in terms of production costs, thus protecting the company and its customers from price fluctuations related to the supply of rare metals," the company specifies. As for hydrogen thermal engines, they "also have greater robustness and better durability in use than fuel cells," NamX said.

And to add: "Where the latter require very pure hydrogen, leading to the regular replacement of air and hydrogen filters, internal combustion tolerates less pure and cheaper hydrogen. These specific positive characteristics position hydrogen thermal vehicles as a sustainable, economical and reliable choice over the entire life cycle."