Center for Transportation and the Environment to Lead Innovative Battery-Free Fuel Cell Bus Project

ATLANTA, Nov. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) has launched a battery-free Fuel Cell Dominant Proof of Concept project under the FTA-sponsored Transit Vehicle Innovation Deployment Centers (TVIDC) program.

This groundbreaking initiative, featuring fuel cell technology patented by Nimbus Power Systems, aims to transform zero-emission public transit by introducing a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system to the transit bus market.

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Unlike existing transit fuel cell power systems, Nimbus' patented technology will demonstrate load-following capabilities similar to a diesel powertrain.

This load-following fuel cell dominant propulsion system will eliminate the need for traditional Lithium-Ion battery packs and DC-DC converters, utilizing ultracapacitors instead. Removing the battery packs is expected to reduce the propulsion system's weight and volume by over 50 percent and lead to a cost reduction of approximately 45 percent relative to existing technologies. CTE will lead this initiative in partnership with Nimbus Power Systems, New Flyer, and AC Transit.

"This proof of concept represents a major step forward in our pursuit of reduced emissions through zero-emission transportation technologies," said Dan Raudebaugh, CTE's Executive Director. "By addressing the key challenges of cost, durability, and performance, we are paving the way for widespread adoption of fuel cell buses across the nation."

This project builds on the successful approach of CTE's previous FTA Bus Efficiency Enhancements Research and Demonstrations Program to develop a Reduced Engine Idle Load system for transit buses.

Nimbus, with input from New Flyer, will develop detailed specifications to guide the design of the fuel cell propulsion system (FCPS). The system's performance will be assessed under real-world conditions using AC Transit's operating data. A comprehensive market analysis will evaluate the commercial potential of the FCPS, and the project will culminate in a final report assessing the technology's viability and recommending the next steps to commercialization.

Under the TVIDC program, CTE is poised to deliver an ambitious portfolio of projects that advance the adoption of zero-emission transit solutions.

Each project is designed to address critical barriers to zero-emission technology, such as cost, durability, and performance, providing comprehensive solutions for transit agencies. This body of work encompasses a variety of innovative initiatives, including the integration and bench testing of cutting-edge fuel cell propulsion systems, market evaluations, and extensive trade studies. CTE's efforts will also include detailed project management, stakeholder engagement, and data collection and analysis, ensuring that each initiative contributes valuable insights and actionable outcomes to propel the industry toward a sustainable, zero-emission future.

ABOUT CTE

The Center for Transportation and the Environment is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to improve the health of our climate and communities by bringing people together to develop and commercialize clean, efficient, and sustainable transportation technologies.

CTE collaborates with federal, state, and local governments, fleets, and vehicle technology manufacturers to complete its mission.

If interested in learning more about CTE, please visit cte.tv.