Coca-Cola is set to unveil what it describes as the world’s first hydrogen-powered vending machines at the upcoming World Expo 2025, which opens to the public in Osaka, Japan, on 13 April 2025.
Developed in collaboration with Fuji Electric, the new machines operate without a connection to mains electricity, instead utilising replaceable hydrogen cartridges to fuel a chemical reaction that produces electricity. The generated power is stored in an internal battery, allowing the machines to function independently of traditional power sources.
The hydrogen system is housed in an additional generator module, giving the vending machines a slightly larger footprint than conventional models. This module contains the cartridges and facilitates the chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, which produces the electricity required to power the machine.
A total of 58 vending machines will be installed at the Expo, each equipped with an educational display explaining the technology behind hydrogen power.
While Coca-Cola has not disclosed how long the machines can operate before the hydrogen cartridges must be replaced, the off-grid capability suggests greater flexibility in where such machines can be deployed. However, regular maintenance, including restocking and cartridge replacement, will still be necessary.
The introduction of hydrogen-powered vending machines is part of a broader industry push to explore low-carbon energy alternatives and reduce reliance on conventional electricity infrastructure.
