Coca-Cola is set to introduce an exciting innovation—a hydrogen-powered vending machine that operates without a power outlet
Coca-Cola is preparing to introduce hydrogen-powered vending machines at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. The beverage giant claims to be the first company in the world to develop this technology in collaboration with Fuji Electric, a Japanese electrical equipment company. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Coca-Cola aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050
These vending machines do not require a power outlet; they use replaceable hydrogen cartridges to fuel a chemical reaction that generates electricity. The company states that hydrogen is a good power source for vending machines, as it allows them to operate in any weather conditions and requires minimal space
Coca-Cola states, “A hydrogen cartridge is loaded in the generator and electricity is generated through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in the air. The generated electricity is then stored in a battery from where it is transmitted to the vending machine and used to run the machine”
Coca-Cola plans to install 58 of these vending machines at the Expo. While the company has not disclosed how long the machines will operate before their hydrogen cartridges need replacement
It is essential to address the substantial challenges involved in developing a robust hydrogen supply infrastructure and to prioritize the optimization of overall costs to achieve success in this critical energy transition
Disconnecting the power cord allows these new machines to be installed anywhere. However, the company will still need to ensure that they have relatively easy access for regular maintenance