In 2020, Bouygues Construction, via Construction Venture (its minority investment fund for start-ups) and its subsidiary Bouygues Energies & Services, put capital into PowiDian. Bouygues Energies & Services, which is interested in incorporating low-carbon solutions, has been investing in the renewable hydrogen market for several years. According to Caroline Mazzoleni, Deputy Director of Hydrogen and Smart Energy “It’s an essential means of accelerating energy transition.” In particular, the two partners are working together to supply hydrogen-powered generators for the decarbonisation of construction sites and to guarantee energy self-sufficiency for isolated sites. The new subsidiary PowiDian Mobility was born out of a meeting between Jean-Marie Bourgeais, PowiDian’s founder, and Michel Lecomte, CEO of the LMI design office. This was acquired by PowiDian in 2021 and possesses a manufacturer’s code – an identification code assigned to each car manufacturer. PowiDian Mobility is aiming to bring hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles to market. Which design has been chosen? It is a hybrid with an electric motor combined with a fuel cell and batteries. This should ensure the vehicle’s driving performance, improved range and charging time compared to a conventional electric vehicle, as well as provide sufficient energy to power accessories, such as the high-pressure cleaner which is fitted to some vans. “In addition to hydrogen technology, we want to bring on board the most recent innovations in the field of electric power to create hybrid models which are technically and financially more efficient,” emphasises Jean-Marie Bourgeais. “The aim is to produce a state-of-the-art vehicle. ” Caroline Mazzoleni explains “We plan to offer the commercial vehicles developed by Powidian Mobility and fuelled by renewable hydrogen produced by Bouygues Energies & Services as part of our H2 projects centred around local ecosystems.” Modular and scalable, these vehicles will meet the different needs of local authorities and companies wishing to renew their fleet with zero emission vehicles.   PowiDian and Bouygues Energies & Services are now exploring development opportunities and the use of emerging hydrogen markets. “In addition to the investment made by Construction Venture and Bouygues Energies & Services, there’s an operational partnership contract comprising two elements,” adds Julien Bourcerie, manager of Open Innovation at Bouygues Construction and Corporate Venture. One is commercial and aims to access markets jointly. The other is technological and plans to test new designs, share our knowledge and build on our expertise. ”   This partnership will enable their customers to meet their decarbonisation goals and contribute to the energy transition of cities and businesses.