Concept

Our Powertrain system replaces diesel or CNG powertrains in cargo tractors with a hydrogen-electric hybrid. Existing vehicles are retrofitted, so operators keep their proven vehicle platforms and fleet size.

System architecture

• Hydrogen rotary combustion engine
• Electric motor and inverter
• Compact battery system
• Hydrogen storage system at 350 bar (Type III tanks)

Key benefits

• Near-zero emissions: NOx well below 1 g/kWh, dynamically adjustable to near zero; CO and HC near zero
• No hydrogen quality requirements: runs on 100% hydrogen of varying purity
• Low acquisition costs: a total cost of ownership (TCO) comparable to battery-electric vehicles, based on the use case
• Full shift capability: 7.5–10 h of operation without refuelling
• Short refuelling times instead of long charging breaks
• Robust and modular: adaptable to different vehicle types

Pilot vehicle: retrofitted Comet 4 CNG baggage tractor (project HydroPortDrive)

• 40 kW hydrogen rotary engine and 35 kW (peak) electric motor
• 3 × battery modules, 3.1 kWh
• 4 × 2.4 kg H₂ tanks at 350 bar (9.6 kg total)
• Avg. hydrogen consumption of 0.9–1.2 kg/h in real operation
• Max. towing load of 11.5 t, the same as the original vehicle

Refuelling infrastructure

• Mobile and stationary solutions are available through partners
• Modular and scalable, from pilot operation to entire fleets