Hexagon Purus to Supply Toyota Fuel Cell Powertrain Kits
Hexagon Purus will supply components to Toyota Motor North America for the serial production of its heavy-duty fuel cell electric powertrain kits. The collaboration involves providing a full hydrogen storage system and high-voltage battery pack for these advanced powertrain kits.
History of Collaboration
Hexagon Purus's partnership with Toyota began in 2017 when it started developing fuel-cell electric powertrain kits for Class 8 trucks. This included the proof-of-concept "Alpha" truck for the Port of Los Angeles, which supported the port's efforts to reduce harmful emissions. In 2020, Hexagon Purus further contributed to the hydrogen-powered heavy-duty fuel cell electric truck powertrain used in the "Ocean" trucks as part of the ZANZEFF "Shore to Store" program.
Advancing Zero Emission Transportation
"We are entering a new era in our collaboration with Toyota, supplying components for its fuel cell powertrain kits to help pave the way for zero-emission commercial transportation. Hydrogen can significantly reduce emissions from heavy-duty transportation," said Todd Sloan, Executive Vice President of Battery Systems and Vehicle Integration at Hexagon Purus.
Production and Certification
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) will assemble integrated dual fuel-cell (FC) modules for use in hydrogen-powered heavy-duty commercial trucks. The fuel cell kit, including the battery and hydrogen storage systems supplied by Hexagon Purus, will be sold to heavy-duty truck OEMs for hydrogen-powered Class 8 trucks.
Toyota has received a Zero Emission Powertrain (ZEP) Executive Order from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for its new heavy-duty fuel cell electric powertrain, aiding OEMs and operators in complying with strict emissions regulations in California.
Emissions Reduction Goals
The 2015 Paris Agreement set a target for the transport sector to reduce emissions by 75% by 2050. In the U.S., the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have introduced comprehensive proposals and regulations to reduce transportation emissions further. These measures focus on:
- Increasing Fuel Efficiency: Implementing stricter fuel economy standards.
- Promoting Zero-Emission Vehicles (ZEVs): Encouraging the adoption of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.
- Enhancing Renewable Fuels: Increasing the use of biofuels and renewable energy sources.
Impact of CARB Regulations
California is a key player in this transition, with approximately 1.8 million commercial trucks operating daily, including 219,000 class 7 and 8 trucks. According to CARB, the combined effect of the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) and Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulations will result in approximately 0.5 million ZEVs on the road by 2035, increasing to 1.6 million by 2050.
The collaboration between Hexagon Purus and Toyota and the regulatory measures by EPA and CARB represents a significant step towards achieving the 1.5°C goal. These initiatives are crucial for reducing the environmental impact of transportation, improving public health, and supporting broader climate goals.
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