GM is investigating several advanced propulsion technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cell technology, to achieve its objective of lowering car emissions. Recently, The General revealed a brand-new GM fuel cell pilot initiative that uses hydrogen technology to build low-emission workplaces. This includes medium-duty fuel cell trucks and the hydrogen infrastructure that supports them. The venture, which intends to demonstrate the useful applications of fuel cell technology for use in commercial and fleet vehicles, is financed by the Department of Energy’s SuperTruck 3 program and the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office.
The fuel cell trucks are built on a platform like that of the 2024 Chevy Silverado 5500 MD. GM’s Hydrotec fuel cell technology has a range of up to 300 miles and a gross vehicle weight rating of 19,500 pounds. The device can produce power up to 300kW (402 horsepower) at its natural 800V voltage.
In addition to developing an integrated hydrogen microgrid in conjunction with GM and Nel ASA, Southern Company will incorporate new Hydrotec fuel cell vehicles into its operations. Nel ASA PEM electrolyzers will be incorporated into the microgrid system to produce hydrogen locally. The microgrid is anticipated to be installed at an undisclosed power plant in Georgia. During off-peak hours, it will produce green hydrogen, which will be utilized to power the site’s activities during periods when grid power is most expensive. Additionally, 350kW quick charger stations for electric medium-duty vehicles will be powered by fuel cells.
Executive director of global Hydrotec Charlie Freese stated, “These trucks and their accompanying hydrogen infrastructure can help enable a zero-emissions solution for HD and MD truck customers looking to meet their clean energy goals as well as reduce their operational noise and carbon footprint.” “With comparable towing and payload capabilities, GM’s advanced fuel cell technology gives these trucks a competitive edge against their diesel counterparts.”
The U.S. Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center provides extra cash for the development of fuel cell propulsion systems, which helps GM in its fuel cell technological endeavors.
