Cummins and Navistar are to partner on development of a US class 8 truck powered by hydrogen fuel cells.

The project will be funded in part through an award from the US Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) previously announced in August, as part of DOE’s ‘H2@Scale’ initiative to develop affordable hydrogen production, storage, distribution and use.

“This vehicle will feature our next generation fuel cell configuration and provides a springboard for us to advance our hydrogen technology for line haul trucks,” said Cummins head of new power, Amy Davis.

“We are also excited to build on our strong relationship with Navistar, which dates back 80 years and work together to lower costs and make hydrogen powered vehicles more accessible for fleets to adopt.”

The award is one of two DOE grants awarded to Cummins, totalling US$7m and will aid in the development of an integrated fuel cell electric powertrain for heavy duty trucks.

This includes development of a product that is scalable, with a proven range of 300 miles or more and improved fuel economy compared to current heavy duty trucks.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The powertrain will be integrated into an International RH Series and uses two HyPM HD90 power modules, made up of HD45 fuel cell stacks connected in series. Instead of having a single large fuel cell operate at an inefficient partial load, individual HD45 power modules can be turned on or off to provide adequate power at an efficient full load.

The prototype fuel cell class 8 truck will ultimately see a year-long field test. The lorry will be integrated into Werner Enterprises’ fleet of 7,700 tractors and operated in real world local and/or regional delivery operation in Fontana, California.

Major objectives of the DOE award include achieving, meeting or exceeding conventional diesel powertrain performance requirements and reducing the upfront capital costs by 35% to make the adoption of zero emission fuel cell technologies viable for commercial fleets.