Bosch, the global technology and engineering company, has unveiled a significant milestone in its partnership with Shanxi Meijin Energy by supplying 300 commercial vehicles equipped with Bosch’s fuel cell systems. The announcement was made at the inauguration of Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems’ new facility, a joint venture established between Bosch and Qingling Motor in 2021. While Shanxi Meijin Energy is primarily known as a coal producer, it has emerged as an early advocate of hydrogen solutions in China.
In addition to this accomplishment, Bosch has entered into contracts with notable customers, including Cosco Shipping and China Postal Express & Logistic, for an additional 1,000 fuel cell logistics vehicles. However, specific details regarding the orders, such as delivery schedules and financial scope, have not been disclosed.
Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems leverages various components sourced from the Bosch plant in Wuxi, including the fuel cell stack, air compressor with power electronics, and a control unit equipped with sensors, to manufacture ready-to-install fuel cell systems. Currently, these systems are primarily integrated into models produced by joint venture partner Qingling Motor. However, the company’s founding mission was to provide fuel cell systems to as many Chinese vehicle manufacturers as possible.
These fuel cell systems are available with power outputs ranging from 76 to 300 kW, designed to address a broad spectrum of applications, including commercial vehicles for urban mobility, medium-duty logistics, and long-haul transportation. Bosch reports that the 300 kW fuel cell power module has already been deployed in customer vehicles for experimental purposes.
The inaugural ceremony of Bosch’s new facility in Chongqing was attended by Bosch management. Dr. Stefan Hartung, Chairman of the Bosch board of management, emphasized the significance of the Chinese market for new energy vehicles, stating, “China is the largest market for new energy vehicles in the world, standing at the forefront of technological innovation and industrialization. We aim to seize future opportunities and contribute to sustainable mobility in China through strategic investment and active collaboration with local partners.”
Duntao Jiang, Vice Mayor of the Chongqing Municipal Government, noted that the inauguration of the new site not only signifies a new beginning and enhanced cooperation between Chongqing and Bosch but also effectively promotes the development of a hydrogen energy industry ecosystem in Chongqing.