Bosch Deploys Hydrogen Trucks for In-Plant Logistics

Automotive supplier Bosch is increasingly relying on hydrogen for its in-plant logistics operations at its Nuremberg production site. The company recently began operating a fuel cell electric truck equipped with Bosch’s proprietary Fuel Cell Power Module (FCPM).

“When we decided to make our in-plant logistics more climate-friendly, we opted from the outset to use a truck featuring FCPM technology,” explains Alexander Weichsel, Commercial Plant Manager in Nuremberg. The operation of this truck, he adds, represents an important and proven component in reducing emissions within logistics. After all, several thousand trucks equipped with these modules are already in use worldwide.

In addition to reducing CO₂ emissions, the primary goal of the project is to collect operating data that will contribute to the further development of future drive systems. The truck will cover around 12,000 kilometers per year. Series production of the FCPM began in 2023. “The smooth operation shows that the fuel cell is ready for series production. Key factors for a successful hydrogen economy include, above all, the high availability of affordable hydrogen and the establishment of an adequate hydrogen infrastructure,” says Weichsel.

With five installed hydrogen tanks holding a total of 70 kilograms of hydrogen at 700 bar, the fuel cell truck achieves a range of up to 800 kilometers. Two battery packs serve as energy buffers between the fuel cell and an axle driven by an electric motor. The truck’s maximum system output is 400 kilowatts, equivalent to around 540 horsepower. This allows for a gross vehicle weight of up to 44 metric tons.

Bosch emphasizes the favorable refueling time of the hydrogen-powered truck, which is comparable to that of conventional diesel trucks. Moreover, hydrogen trucks – unlike battery-electric ones – offer a high range that is not affected by low temperatures.

Since the start of production, the Bosch plant in Bamberg has been supplying the fuel cell stack for the Bosch FCPM. Additional drive components, such as the electric air compressor and the recirculation blower, are produced at the company’s Homburg facility.