French manufacturer Mob-ion has come up with an ingenious solution that could completely eliminate range anxiety. The company has taken the wraps off the AM1 prototype, a scooter that uses hydrogen cartridges to power its 3kW motor rather than conventional lithium-ion batteries.
The Mob‑Ion AM1 began as an electric scooter by French startup Mob-Ion, recognized for its eco‑design and “pérennité programmée” approach. The hydrogen-powered version, developed in partnership with STOR‑H, marks a bold step in lightweight zero-emission urban transport
These cylindrical hydrogen cartridges, which power the electric motor, are about the size of two stacked soda cans. The tiny size of the cells means they occupy little space and weigh less than the currently used lithium-ion batteries, resulting in a lighter scooter with ample storage space. The gas stored in the canisters are safe and produces electricity by reacting with the oxygen in the air. However, the setup does require a buffer battery to ensure it works efficiently.
Powertrain & Energy System
- Utilizes a 3 kW (≈4 HP) brushless hub motor, delivering a top speed around 45 km/h (50cc equivalent, L1e homologation)
- Departs from traditional battery dependency by using removable cylindrical hydrogen cartridges (~size of two soda cans each), holding low-pressure hydrogen (~9–10 bar)
- A small buffer battery (~2.4 kWh) ensures steady power delivery and improves efficiency
Refueling System & Range
- Quick swap cartridge design: replace empty hydrogen cans in seconds instead of waiting to recharge
- In prototype form, holds 2–3 cartridges under the saddle for around 60 km range, with full energy (~140 km) when combining cartridges with buffer battery
- STOR‑H aims to enable an exchange program at retail outlets, akin to propane tank swaps
Design Philosophy & Sustainability
- AM1 is built under Mob‑Ion’s “pérennité programmée” principle, emphasizing modular, repairable, and recyclable design. Components can be reused or remanufactured; 62 % recoverable, 38 % recyclable
- Certified Origine France Garantie: ~70–73 % of its assembly and parts sourced from France—battery in Artigues‑près‑Bordeaux, controllers near Nantes, final assembly in Guise
- Achieved a repairability score of ~9.1/10, making it one of the most maintainable scooters on the market
Features & Connected Systems
- Equipped with a digital instrument cluster, built-in GPS, disc brakes front and rear, reverse gear for tight parking, and Michelin PowerPure tires
- Comes with a smart-management system named Jimini, enabling:
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Usage data insights
- Remote locking in case of theft
- Predictive maintenance alerts (hours, mileage, components lifespan)
Performance & Comparison
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 3 kW brushless motor |
| Top Speed | ~45 km/h |
| Energy Source | Swappable H₂ cartridges + 2.4 kWh buffer battery |
| Range (H₂ + Battery) | Up to 140 km (depending on usage) |
| Refueling | Cartridge swap in seconds |
| Empty Weight | ~92 kg |
| Load Capacity | Up to 260 kg |
| Repairability Score | ≈9.1 / 10 |
| Localization | ~70–73 % made in France |
| Certification | L1e homologation, Origine France Garantie |
Environmental & Industry Impact
- Life-cycle assessments indicate the AM1 exhibits ~8× lower climate impact than comparable gasoline scooters and ~3× lower than other electric scooters, except in water use (due to battery production)
- Encourages circular economy by designing for disassembly, reuse, and remanufacturing—aligning with EU sustainability directives and France’s green mobility goals.
Mob‑Ion AM1 Hydrogen Scooter is a compelling prototype that pushes boundaries in lightweight hydrogen mobility. With its modular design, sustainable lifecycle, fast-refuel concept, and lower emissions footprint, it offers a blueprint for zero-emission urban vehicles. However, realizing its potential hinges on establishing hydrogen infrastructure and scaling production. If Mob‑Ion can navigate these barriers, AM1 could herald a major shift in last-mile mobility toward green hydrogen adoption.