A World First at F-TEC

Delivery of F-TEC Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trainer

Introducing the new hydrogen fuel cell training rig.

[31st July 2025]

F-TEC have just taken delivery of the world’s first dedicated hydrogen training rig at their training centre in Swindon.

F-TEC have worked closely with Block Automotive for many years, and they are F-TEC’s primary supplier of bespoke training equipment. Block Automotive have been designing, fabricating and manufacturing vocational training rigs since 1984 and now operates from a 40,000 square foot site situated in 3.5 acres of land located in the centre of Kessingland, Suffolk.

Over the last year, F-TEC and Block Automotive have worked closely together on developing and delivering the purpose-built hydrogen rig. This latest investment will serve as a vital piece of training equipment for those working with hydrogen vehicles.

This cutting-edge addition represents a huge leap forward in F-TEC’s commitment to staying at the forefront of industry innovation and sustainability. As the new, emerging technology in the global transportation industry, hydrogen is rapidly being adopted as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel and battery-electric powered vehicles. This growth requires engineers who are fully trained in this technology to maintain and repair the equipment. F-TEC can now provide training for engineers working with or planning to work with hydrogen-fuelled equipment and vehicles.

The Hydrogen Vehicle Technology course offers a comprehensive understanding of hydrogen technology, fuel cell systems, refuelling infrastructure, and real-world applications. Through interactive training, hands-on demonstrations, and practical case studies, participants will explore hydrogen production, storage, safety regulations and operational considerations. The course also includes experience with their new hydrogen fuel cell training rig, allowing participants to apply their knowledge in practical scenarios.

Karl Baum, F-TEC Managing Director, says, “This milestone highlights not only our leadership in technical training, but also the trust Block Automotive have placed in F-TEC as a pioneer in shaping the future of engineering skills. It’s an achievement the whole company can be proud of, and one that’s only possible thanks to the hard work, passion, and belief of our incredible team.”

F-TEC have been delivering engineering training for over a decade, always keeping ahead of the latest industry developments, and by introducing hydrogen training alongside their existing portfolio of courses, they continue to push boundaries and raise the bar for training excellence.

For more information and to book a place on the new Hydrogen Vehicle Technology training course, visit www.f-tec.org.uk.

About F-TEC

F-TEC is the UK’s dedicated training and development centre for the forklift and powered access industry. Offering a range of engineering and operator training programmes, F-TEC supports businesses and individuals in achieving industry-leading qualifications and career progression.