HVS Attribute Prototype Build is Underway at New Silverstone Facility
Commercial vehicle market disrupter, HVS (Hydrogen Vehicle Systems), has announced another major milestone with the start of prototype manufacturing at a specialist build facility in Silverstone, Northamptonshire. There, HVS will be building several Attribute Prototype (AP) test vehicles as part of its vehicle development programme as they move closer to series production of their revolutionary hydrogen fuel cell HGV.
Fablink’s 18,000 sq. ft state-of-the-art facility offers HVS complete build capabilities encompassing quality assurance, logistics, a toolroom and office amenities. HVS and Fablink are embarking on a long-term partnership, with Fablink providing the manufacturing of cab structures, chassis, power towers and providing assembly services. The build is underway with additional support of manufacturing service partners HSSMI.
Rotation of an AP rig’s chassis as part of the build process
“We have embarked on another exciting new chapter for HVS. The Fablink team and facility provides us with the space, all the equipment and expertise essential for our build operations. This next project phase in Silverstone, home of automotive excellence, combined with the support of our exceptional team and manufacturing partners, positions us perfectly to successfully deliver our prototype programme.”
The HVS team celebrates the start of the AP build
“Fablink prides itself in offering a depth of engineering and technical capability alongside strong competencies in design, tooling & prototyping. It is therefore a pleasure to be working with HVS on this landmark build project where we can share engineering excellence.”
“We have a shared commitment to delivering sustainable transportation solutions, and a joint passion for innovation. So, we are incredibly pleased to work with HVS to optimise their manufacturing processes and assist in the production of these prototypes in a high quality and efficient way.”
HVS have completed the initial build of the first of the prototype rigs at the Silverstone site, which will shortly be despatched to UTAC, Leyland for the initial rig testing. The build of several other APs is now underway. Each unit will be used to test specific attributes of the truck design, from strength and durability to the range and efficiency of the vehicle ahead of series production which is due to start mid-decade.
Cab build underway
The first test rig built at Silverstone is despatched.
About Fablink: The Fablink Group, a UK based Tier 1 supplier established in 2005, provides a comprehensive range of manufacturing services. The organisation specialises in development engineering and technology, pressing and components manufacture, complex structure assembly, pre-treatment and surface coatings, trim & final assembly, as well as supply chain management. The expansive service portfolio allows Fablink to also offer complete vehicle assembly. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Fablink Group delivers customised solutions to some of the world’s largest OEMs within the automotive, truck, off-highway, power generation and material handling industries.
About HSSMI: HSSMI is a sustainable manufacturing innovation consultancy that works with companies to support them in increasing productivity, upscaling production, and integrating circular economy-based practices, with the ultimate goal of moving towards net-zero. Since its inception in 2012, HSSMI has worked with established manufacturers, aspiring start-ups and government bodies to help accelerate the manufacture of low carbon technologies, whilst implementing sustainable manufacturing practices.
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