Akkodis and EKPO Bring Fuel Cell Technology from the Test Bench to Real-World Logistics Operations

Akkodis integrates EKPO's NM20 fuel cell stack into a hydrogen-powered truck, creating a platform for validation under real-world heavy-duty transport conditions.

[Sindelfingen, August 27, 2026] Akkodis, a global leader in digital engineering consulting and part of the Adecco Group, and EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies (EKPO), a leading supplier of fuel cell stacks for carbon-neutral mobility, are bringing fuel cell technology from the test environment into real-world logistics operations through their partnership. At the center of the project is EKPO's NM20* fuel cell stack, which will be integrated into a hydrogen-powered truck and validated under real operating conditions. Akkodis is responsible for the development, integration and assembly of the complete powertrain.

The demands placed on alternative propulsion systems are particularly high in heavy-duty transport, where performance, efficiency, and reliability are critical. Many of these requirements can only be fully assessed under real-world operating conditions: varying load profiles, gradients, braking events, temperature conditions, and different driving dynamics all influence the interaction between the fuel cell, battery system, high-voltage architecture, thermal management, and vehicle control systems. To address this, Akkodis and EKPO are deliberately moving part of the validation process from the test bench to real-world operation.

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The hydrogen-powered truck serves as a mobile development and validation platform. In addition to test bench trials, the vehicle is expected to provide valuable operational data during future deployment with a logistics company, demonstrating how the NM20 fuel cell stack performs as part of a complete vehicle and propulsion system. The insights gained will contribute to the further development of next-generation fuel cell systems and hydrogen-based propulsion solutions.

"Bringing fuel cell technology into real-world logistics operations is a complex integration challenge. This is precisely where Akkodis’ strength lies: combining technology, system architecture, hardware, and software into a fully integrated solution. Together with EKPO, we are creating new opportunities for the application of hydrogen technology, in heavy-duty transport and beyond," said Dr. Thomas Klukas, CEO of Akkodis Germany.

From Fuel Cell Stack to Integrated Powertrain System

Akkodis’ engineering scope covers the development of the complete fuel cell system and its integration into the existing truck platform. EKPO provides the NM20 fuel cell stack along with its stack-specific development expertise.
Building on this foundation, Akkodis is responsible for the system architecture, the selection and design of the required components, high-voltage integration, control systems and operating strategy, as well as thermal management. The operating concepts developed by Akkodis are subsequently translated into electronic control unit (ECU) software. In addition, Akkodis manages both the hardware and software integration into the vehicle, followed by the commissioning of the overall system. This creates a fully integrated fuel cell electric powertrain from individual technological components.

"With the NM20, we have developed a fuel cell stack specifically designed to meet the demands of heavy-duty applications requiring high power output and outstanding efficiency. The data generated through the operation of the hydrogen-powered truck will provide valuable insights for the further development of our fuel cell technology and make an important contribution to the industrialization of hydrogen-powered powertrains," said Dr. Stefan Dwenger, Managing Director of EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies.

The NM20 is the most powerful fuel cell stack in EKPO’s portfolio. With an output of up to 400 kW and a service life of more than 25,000 operating hours, it was specifically developed for demanding heavy-duty applications. The demonstration vehicle employs a one-stack-one-system approach: the hydrogen-powered truck is powered by a single NM20 fuel cell stack, achieving a system output of up to 360 kW and efficiency levels of up to 61 percent.

Real-World Operational Data as a Foundation for Future Applications

The data generated through the project extends beyond the validation of a single vehicle. It provides insights into how high-performance fuel cell systems can be integrated into complex vehicle architectures, controlled and validated under real-world operating conditions. This creates a solid foundation for future integration projects across additional vehicle classes and applications.

Looking ahead, the insights gained may also be transferred to other application areas, including stationary power generation, maritime transport and off-highway machinery. Together, Akkodis and EKPO are creating a foundation for the broader adoption of hydrogen-based powertrain solutions across a wide range of markets and industries.