System-Level Simulation to Design a Hydrogen Powered Refuse Collection Vehicle Based on Real-World Fleet Operational Data

This study addresses one of the challenges in the energy transition of heavy-duty vehicles by converting a diesel Refuse Collection Vehicle (RCV) into a hydrogen-powered prototype. The research is part of the VeH2Dem project funded by NextGenerationEU and focuses on dimensioning the complete hydrogen propulsion system for a RCV, including the energy storage capacity, without compromising payload or operational functionality. The development of the propulsion system is based on a comprehensive analysis of operational data extracted from fleet management systems, complemented by detailed instrumental monitoring of various collection routes. This methodology ensured that the prototype inherits performance equivalent to the original internal combustion engine vehicle across all evaluated scenarios. The vehicle performance objectives were established following a comparative analysis with solutions currently available in the RCV market, incorporating statistical analyses to ensure continuous operation capability across multiple work shifts.