Ballard Power Systems is set to debut its advanced FCmove®-XD fuel cell engine, showcasing its cutting-edge 240kW configuration at the IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024 event, held at the Hannover Messe Center. Attendees can visit Ballard at Hall 24, Booth C)! to witness this innovative technology firsthand.
High-Performance and Scalable Fuel Cell Solution
The new FCmove®-XD module represents a significant advancement in Ballard’s fuel cell technology, offering an unmatched combination of power and efficiency. This ninth-generation fuel cell engine boasts a compact design that delivers industry-leading volumetric power density. With its open architecture, the FCmove®-XD is the smallest and lightest fuel cell in its power class, making it ideal for a wide range of heavy-duty applications, including long-haul trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles.
Ballard has leveraged over three decades of experience in fuel cell development to create the FCmove®-XD. The engine’s modular design allows for scalable power output, providing flexibility to meet the varying needs of different vehicle types. This flexibility ensures that operators can choose the most efficient configuration for their specific application, whether it’s for urban delivery trucks or cross-country haulers.
Tailored for Demanding Truck Applications
High power and performance are crucial in the truck market, driven by varied demands like heavy vehicle use and payload needs,” stated Dave Mucciacciaro, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Ballard. The FCmove®-XD’s modular scalability allows us to offer tailored solutions, ranging from 120kW to 360kW, depending on the truck class and operational needs. For example, the 240kW configuration can be easily integrated into a standard Class 8 heavy-duty truck, providing both standardisation and redundancy. This modular approach also supports future upgrades and maintenance, ensuring that the system remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
Unmatched Power Density and Efficiency
The FCmove®-XD sets a new standard in volumetric power density for heavy-duty fuel cell applications, featuring:
- Volumetric Power Density: 0.36 kW/L
- Gravimetric Power Density: 0.48 kW/kg
- Modular Scalability: 120kW, 240kW, and 360kW configurations
- Integrated DC/DC Regulation: Allows seamless operation of up to three modules as a single system, delivering up to 360kW of zero-emission power.
The FCmove®-XD also incorporates advanced thermal management systems, allowing it to operate efficiently across a wide range of temperatures, from extreme cold to high heat environments. This ensures reliable performance in all climates and operating conditions, making it a versatile solution for global markets.
Durability and Cost Efficiency
Designed for over 30,000 hours of operation, the FCmove®-XD is engineered to deliver a long lifespan and low total cost of ownership. Its robust design supports a driving range of up to 800km, depending on onboard hydrogen storage capacity. Key performance enhancements include:
- 33% Reduction in Parts: Enhances reliability and reduces costs.
- Peak System Efficiency >60%: Improves fuel consumption and heat management.
- Wide Operating Temperature Range: Up to 95°C.
- Rapid Power Transitions: Hot stand-by mode ensures quick power adjustments.
These features make the FCmove®-XD not only a high-performance engine but also a cost-effective solution for fleet operators looking to transition to zero-emission vehicles. The reduction in parts and improved efficiency directly contribute to lower operational costs, making the FCmove®-XD an attractive option for businesses focused on sustainability and long-term savings.
Commitment to Heavy-Duty Mobility
Our commitment is to deliver economic value to our customers in the heavy-duty mobility sector,” Mucciacciaro continued. “The FCmove®-XD is engineered for large-scale production, targeting competitive capital expenditure and ownership costs within the heavy-duty truck market.”
Ballard’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in the FCmove®-XD, which is poised to set a new benchmark in the fuel cell industry. By combining high power density, scalability, and efficiency, Ballard is paving the way for the future of zero-emission heavy-duty transportation.
