Applus+ IDIADA Conducts Indoor Hydrogen Vehicle Crash Test

Building on last year's successful outdoor hydrogen vehicle test program, Applus+ IDIADA has now taken innovation to the next level by conducting an indoor impact test with a next-generation vehicle. This accomplishment represents a crucial step forward in the company's capabilities for comprehensive hydrogen vehicle safety assessment.

The successful test was made possible through teamwork across multiple specialized departments. The Passive Safety, Powertrain Hybrid & Fuel Cell, Test Facility Design, Occupational Health and Safety, and Security teams worked in concert to adapt emergency protocols and ensure the test met both client requirements and internal safety regulations, specifically standard NS31.

Advanced Safety Measures

To enable this indoor test, several sophisticated safety systems were implemented:

• A permanently connected drag system was installed to rapidly remove the vehicle from the testing area immediately after impact, preventing potential hydrogen concentration.
• The facility was equipped with hydrogen detection systems, ATEX equipment designed for explosive atmospheres, and thermal cameras to monitor potential thermal events.
• Specialized extraction systems were mounted on the facility roof to ensure proper ventilation throughout the testing process.

Post-Test Safety Protocol

Following the impact test, the team executed carefully planned safety procedures that included:

• Complete venting of hydrogen tanks and systems, followed by safe disassembly of the fuel cell components.
• All personnel involved received specialized training according to the NS31 regulation and were equipped with purpose-designed safety equipment for these critical tasks.

This breakthrough represents a significant advancement in hydrogen vehicle safety assessment capabilities and further cements Applus+ IDIADA's position as a leader in automotive testing innovation.