Low Carbon Hydrogen

High efficiency hydrogen compressor for mobile applications

THE PROBLEM

The current primary powerplants for the heavy-duty industry are diesel engines, which dominate the market. Diesel is ubiquitous in these applications because of its high efficiency and high power/torque capability. Diesel fuel is also a very energy-dense approach for fuel storage. A truck can carry considerable energy onboard, which translates to longer operating ranges. However, it is well-recognized that combustion engines emit significant CO2 emissions, with long-haul trucks forming one of the largest emitting groups.

Both Europe and North America have introduced emissions legislation to drive the adoption of technologies which reduce greenhouse gases. The three largest markets – North America, Europe and China – collectively account for the purchase of ~500,000 new trucks annually with large engines rated above 400HP.

THE SOLUTION

Cespira (formerly HPDI Technology), the Westport Fuel Systems and Volvo Group’s new joint venture, is developing their commercially available High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI) gaseous fuel system for compression-ignition, diesel cycle engines to operate with hydrogen fuel.  In conjunction with multiple global commercial vehicle manufacturers, Cespira has demonstrated a reduction of ~95% in CO2 emissions while improving efficiency on state-of-the-art heavy duty engines.

Volvo recently announced plans for an H2 HPDI product, targeting commercial availability of H2 HPDI-powered heavy-duty on-highway trucks later this decade.  These vehicles are expected to qualify as Zero Emissions Vehicles in Europe.

A key part of the H2 HPDI system is an onboard, vehicle-mounted high pressure hydrogen compressor which will maximize the utilization of the fuel stored onboard the vehicle, extend the operating range of the vehicle between refueling events, and optimize the economic value proposition of H2 HPDI powered vehicles.

CICE is pleased to support this new partnership by contributing to a project that aims to double the range of H2-HPDI equipped long-haul trucks.

PROJECT STATUS
Active
PROJECT CATEGORY
Low Carbon Hydrogen
FUNDING RECIPIENT
Cespira
CICE FUNDING AMOUNT
$500,000
PROJECT VALUE
$4,200,000
  • “The generous funding from CICE for development of our hydrogen compressor is welcome as our new joint venture with Volvo Group looks to commercialize our cutting-edge H2 HPDI fuel system. Our technology, born out of innovation right in British Columbia, is pivotal in our mission to provide solutions to global decarbonization in the heavy-duty, long-haul transportation sector. This funding enhances our ability to expand the operating range of H2 HPDI equipped trucks, enabling our technology to meet the diverse needs of the market and drive forward the transition to a sustainable future."
    Scott Baker, Vice President of Product Development, Cespira DISCOVER CESPIRA