German automaker pilots advanced technology in
hydrogen fuel cell series
ROLLE, Switzerland,
June 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Garrett
Motion Inc. (Nasdaq: GTX), a differentiated technology leader
for the automotive industry, is supporting BMW Group's
commitment to developing zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
with an advanced electric fuel cell compressor (FCC) developed by
Garrett's R&D team. BMW Group recently announced that it will
pilot the second generation of its hydrogen fuel cell drive train
in a small series of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, boosted by
Garrett's new generation, modular fuel cell
compressor for hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.
"For the last four years, we have been working closely with
BMW Group to develop an advanced hydrogen fuel cell compressor
tailored to their exact needs. This effort will culminate in an
in-depth, on-road trial later this year," said
Craig Balis, Garrett vice president
and chief technology officer. "We are proud to partner with BMW
Group to support the innovative and zero emissions iX5 Hydrogen
fuel cell vehicle," said Balis. He added, "This is
the result of Garrett's continued investments in new technologies
and is consistent with our commitment to being at the forefront of
hydrogen-powered propulsion systems."
Garrett's electric air compressor for fuel cell electric
vehicles is a key technology in the BMW iX5 Hydrogen's fuel cell
system. Fuel cells generate on-demand electricity for electric
motors via an electro-chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen
in the air supplied to the fuel cell stack. To perform this
reaction efficiently, and to produce maximum power output, the fuel
cell stack is fed with optimal air flow and pressure, as required.
Garrett's high-performance electric air compressor delivers
efficiently the airflow needed to optimize the fuel cell system's
power density and output. It also maximizes the efficiency and
durability of the fuel cell stack over the vehicle's lifetime, in a
very compact package. Specifically for this application, a new
turbine expander, designed to recuperate waste energy from the fuel
cell stack's outlet, enables up to a 20 percent reduction in
electricity consumption for air compression, when compared to
conventional fuel cell compressors.
"Garrett is a pioneer in hydrogen electric fuel cell
compressor technology with years of demonstrated expertise in
production and on-road experience. The next generation builds upon
a legacy of breakthrough design and engineering, including our own
high-speed electric motor, power electronics and advanced
controls," said Balis.
During the development phase, the BMW iX5 Hydrogen and its key
components, including the fuel cell electric compressor and its
inverter, were tested against harsh temperatures, humidity, and
vibration levels. These efforts reflect BMW Group's commitment to
delivering clean mobility via a range of carbon-neutral drive
systems that can reliably perform in all climates.
Garrett's modular, high-performance electric fuel cell
compressors lean on the company's turbo aerodynamics expertise and
operate above standard industry speeds, beyond 150,000 rpm.
Garrett's electric fuel cell compressor portfolio is
configurable to fit the hydrogen powered electric powertrains of
both passenger and commercial vehicles, as well as those of
industrial applications. The company's 400-volt and 800-volt
electric fuel cell compressors feature advanced, patented oil-less
foil bearings which enable exceptional, efficiency and noise
performance, through the avoidance of contamination.
Garrett Motion is an industry
pioneer in hydrogen electric fuel cell compressors, with the first
generation developed in-house and launched in a passenger vehicle
in 2016.
To learn more about Garrett's hydrogen fuel cell compressor
technology, click here.
About Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs)
FCEVs have zero tailpipe emissions and leverage a fully
electrified powertrain where energy is stored as hydrogen in a
high-pressure tank, opposed to a battery. The hydrogen fuel cell
stacks create electrical energy through an electro-chemical
reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, providing on-demand
power to the electric drive motors. The reaction creates
electricity with the only "exhaust" being small amounts of heat and
clean water.
Also, as FCEVs do not require heavy, mineral-rich batteries that
are prone to price inflation, and refueling times are like that of
diesel or gasoline powertrains – minutes, not hours as found with
battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). These aspects of hydrogen-powered
vehicles are particularly beneficial for heavier vehicles like
SUVs, light trucks, commercial vehicles, and off-road
applications.
Global policy changes, advancements in fuel cell technology and
more stringent emissions regulations have contributed to the
fast-growing interest in hydrogen-powered electric vehicles.
According to the Hydrogen Council, more than $500 billion in new hydrogen projects has been
funded in the last two years alone.
About Garrett Motion Inc.
Garrett Motion is a
differentiated technology leader serving automotive customers
worldwide for more than 65 years. The company's advanced
technologies help reduce emissions, reach zero emissions, and
provide vehicle intelligence. Known for its global leadership in
turbocharging and engineering breakthroughs, the company is
developing transformative technologies for vehicles to become
cleaner, more efficient and connected. Its portfolio includes the
1st ever e-turbo, highly-efficient fuel cell
e-compressors, as well as propulsion and thermal management systems
for battery electric vehicles – among other products for passenger
and commercial vehicles, on and off-highway. Garrett boasts five
R&D centers, 13 manufacturing sites and 9300 employees located
in 180 countries. Its mission is to empower the transportation
industry to redefine and further advance motion. For more
information, please visit www.garrettmotion.com.
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