Verne, founded by Forbes 30 Under 30 alums, has raised a total of $15.5 million to help get its cheaper, lighter tanks and hydrogen fueling system out of the lab and into production for truckmakers.

Widely considered to be the "Father of Science Fiction," the famed French poet, novelist, and playwright known as Jules Verne celebrates what would have been his 193rd birthday this year. Born Feb. 8, ...