ZF, Freudenberg Announce Fuel Cell Drive Partnership

ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division has announced a joint development agreement with fuel cell and battery systems supplier, Freudenberg e-Power Systems, according to the company's news release. 

The partners will develop clean e-Drive ‘powerpack’ solutions, consisting of a fuel cell and drivetrain system, as well as share components for a variety of applications, according to ZF. The initial focus of the agreement is to develop an integrated fuel cell e-drive solution for commercial vehicles.

While Freudenberg will offer scalable e-power systems in kit form with power outputs, ZF said it will offer complete electric driveline systems of up to 360 kW continuous power.

“Decarbonization is a major aim of the transport industry, and within this, fuel cell technology will be a game changer. Together with Freudenberg, we can offer a ‘one-stop-shop' solution enabling manufacturers to quickly bring e-mobility solutions to market and supporting the industry's transformation towards a more sustainable future,” said Wilhelm Rehm, ZF board member. “ZF’s cooperation with Freudenberg will develop highly integrated fuel cell e-drive solutions for the commercial vehicle industry. By reducing manufacturers’ development and project costs, our powerpack solutions will also help to lower the total cost of ownership.”

The pilot phase of the cooperation agreement is currently underway with prototypes for bus and truck demonstration vehicles being developed, according to ZF. The prototype is expected by 2023. The company said this corresponds to ZF’s already announced fuel cell partnership for the development of a coach prototype as part of the HyFleet project.

"We are investing heavily in the mobility of the future. In battery, hydrogen, and fuel cell technology as well as in the development of high-tech components for electric vehicles. The long-term cooperation with ZF agreed-upon today underscores the strategic importance and growth potential that we at Freudenberg see in this sector," said Dr. Mohsen Sohi, CEO of the Freudenberg Group.