The two have agreed a three-year partnership worth £9m in the first year, that will see Niftylift manufacture and supply the zero-emission lifts at its Milton Keynes facility exclusively to Speedy Hire, alongside an additional fleet of Niftylift hybrid powered access platforms.

The machines will be delivered to Speedy Hire’s Innovation Centre in Milton Keynes during July.

Hydrogen-electric powered access platforms are fitted with a G20 hydrogen cylinder and fuel cell technology.

This means the machines can be operated for up to five days on a single charge, with additional range available from the hydrogen fuel cell, emitting zero carbon into the atmosphere without compromising on reliability. 

Dan Evans, Chief Executive at Speedy Hire, said the hydrogen-electric powered access platform was the first viable alternative to diesel-powered equipment, especially during the early-stages on construction sites where electric infrastructure is virtually non-existent.

“We have a strong history of leading the market in combining product innovation and sustainability, and our collaboration with Niftylift is yet another example of that.

“This world-first technology is a game changer for UK construction companies, enabling them to start using equipment powered by a zero-emission fuel such as hydrogen.

“Our investment into this partnership with Niftylift enables us to accelerate the sustainable and technological evolution of the sectors we operate in and supports our ambitious plan to become a net zero business by 2040, ten years ahead of the government target.”