Ballard Power Systems has confirmed a minority equity investment in Quantron AG, a global electric vehicle integrator and an emerging specialty OEM, to accelerate fuel cell adoption. As part of Quantron’s financing round of up to EUR50 million (USD51 million), Ballard’s investment proceeds will be used by Quantron to develop its truck fuel cell vehicle platforms, under the terms of a Joint Development Agreement. Ballard will be the exclusive fuel cell supplier to Quantron for these platforms.

As part of the strategic partnership, Quantron has committed to purchasing 140 FCmove modules totalling approximately 17 MW, with an option to purchase an additional 50 units. The fuel cell modules are expected to be delivered in 2023 and 2024.

The zero-emission fuel cell electric vehicle platforms developed by Quantron will integrate Ballard fuel cell products for various truck applications in Europe and the US.

Quantron’s initial market focus is Germany, where its new 44T fuel cell truck is to be unveiled at IAA Transportation 2022.

“We are seeing growing global demand and policy support for zero-emission transport as companies strive to reach decarbonisation targets. This collaboration accelerates our entry into the European truck market and aims to have Quantron’s initial hydrogen-powered, zero-emission trucks on the road in the next 18 months,” says Randy MacEwen, CEO, Ballard Power Systems.