Fuel cell specialist Ballard Power Systems has entered into a substantial long-term supply agreement with North American bus manufacturer NFI Group. Under the initial firm order, Ballard will deliver at least 100 FCmove-HD+ modules in 2024 for integration into New Flyer’s Xcelsior Charge FC H2 buses, destined for deployment in the USA and Canada.
The agreement extends Ballard’s collaboration with NFI, covering fuel cell modules for buses across major NFI brands, including New Flyer, Alexander Dennis, and MCI. The companies have a history of partnership, with Ballard previously supplying fuel cells for ADL’s Enviro400FCEV, unveiled in 2021.
See also: Solaris Places Order for Ballard Fuel Cell Modules to Power Hydrogen Buses in Europe
David White, Executive Vice President of Supply Management at NFI, highlighted the significance of the agreement, stating, “This agreement is the next step in our multi-decade partnership with Ballard and a key component in advancing our leading fuel cell bus offerings.” He emphasized the shared commitment to advancing zero-emission transportation and leveraging synergies in design, engineering, and sourcing.
Ballard’s Chief Commercial Officer, David Mucciacciaro, expressed pride in being chosen as NFI’s committed partner for the fuel cell bus market’s next growth phase. Mucciacciaro highlighted New Flyer’s strategic position to deliver significant volumes of fuel cell buses, particularly in the US market, where hydrogen-powered buses are increasingly preferred for their range, quick refueling times, high availability, and cost-effective infrastructure requirements.
See also: Ford Collaborates with Ballard Power Systems to Develop Fuel Cell Truck Prototype for EU Project
The FCmove-HD+ module, with a power rating of 100 kW and a weight of approximately 250 kilograms, is a key component of the agreement. It operates within a current range of 21 to 360 A and a voltage range of 280 to 560 volts.
In addition to its collaboration with NFI, Ballard is actively engaged with other bus manufacturers, including Solaris. Notably, Ballard recently received an order for 177 modules from Poland in October, following a previous order for 96 modules in August. The modules are intended for various locations, with a significant portion allocated to the bus fleet in the Italian city of Bologna and others destined for Rostock, Germany.
