GM has announced new commercial applications for its HYDROTEC fuel cell charging technology. HYDROTEC projects, which are currently in development, from heavy-duty trucks to aerospace and locomotives, are being planned for use beyond vehicles for power generation.
HYDROTEC-based power generators feature zero-emissions electric power generation output ranging from 60 kilowatts to 600 kilowatts, along with low noise and less heat.
GM is planning multiple HYDROTEC-based power generators, all powered by GM’s Generation 2 HYDROTEC fuel cell power cubes, including a Mobile Power Generator (MPG) to provide fast-charge capability for EVs without installing permanent charge points.
These fuel cell generators could ultimately replace gas and diesel-burning generators with fewer emissions at worksites, buildings, movie sets, data centres, outdoor concerts and festivals.
They could also back up or temporarily replace grid-sourced electricity for residential and small commercial enterprises at times of power disruption.
GM is currently supplying HYDROTEC fuel cell power cubes to Renewable Innovations of Lindon, Utah, to build the Mobile Power Generator.
The two companies will create a generator that can provide fast-charging capability for EVs without having to expand the grid or install permanent charging assets in places where there’s only a temporary need for power.
Charlie Freese, GM executive director of the global HYDROTEC business, says: “Our vision of an all-electric future is broader than just passenger vehicles or even transportation. Our energy platform expertise with Ultium vehicle architectures and propulsion components and HYDROTEC fuel cells can expand access to energy across many different industries and users, while helping to reduce emissions often associated with power generation.”
“As pioneers and innovators in the hydrogen power space, Renewable Innovations sees exciting opportunities across consumer, business, government and industrial markets,” comments Robert Mount, CEO and co-founder of Renewable Innovations. “We’ve seen that there’s a need for EV charging in places where there’s no charging equipment, and now we’re committed to bringing the best technology and game-changing applications to market with GM to accelerate the company’s vision of a zero-emissions future.”
In addition to mobile EV charging, GM and Renewable Innovations have collaborated on the EMPOWER rapid charger.
Intended to help retail fuel stations add more affordable DC fast-charging capability, the EMPOWER rapid charger will help deploy necessary fast charging without significant investment in nonrecoverable electrical infrastructure upgrades, like larger feed wires, transformers and potentially new substations.
