Bosch and Qingling Motors have established a joint venture in China, named Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems (Chongqing) Co. Ltd, that will develop, assemble and market fuel cell systems for the Chinese market. The goal is to pool the technology and market expertise of both partners and contribute to the development of the Chinese fuel cell market.
The joint venture aims to provide all Chinese vehicle manufacturers with fuel cell systems. Small-scale production will start there this year. Also in 2021, a test fleet of 70 Qingling trucks equipped with Bosch’s Fuel Cell Power Module will hit the road.
The market launch of the fuel cell system is planned for 2022/2023.
Du Weidong, chairman of Qingling Motors, says: “We are pleased to continue our successful cooperation with Bosch. The recent cooperation not only represents a milestone on the path to the industrialization of the mobile fuel cell, but also a significant contribution to the further development of the Chinese automotive industry.”
Stefan Hartung, Bosch board of management member and chairman of the Mobility Solutions business sector, adds: “We are now literally picking up speed in the industrialization of the fuel cell. Innovative technologies and strategic partnerships are the ideal fuel for rapidly achieving the goal of making road traffic as climate-neutral as possible.”
Bosch has already built up development and application competences with its fuel cell activities in China. In 2020, the fuel cell center in Wuxi was built. This facility will provide components to the new joint venture.
