Energy companies Nuvera Fuel Cells Inc and FIAMM SpA have joined forces to develop a hydrogen-fuelled, zero-emission power pack for forklifts by 2005.
The new 7kW-class hybrid battery/fuel cell power pack consists of Nuvera's H2e power module, FIAMM batteries, a fuel system, a battery management system and other components.
In addition to being quiet and emission-free, the FIAMM/Nuvera system offers several advantages over conventional batteries, including lower operating costs, reduced maintenance and "always on" capabilities which eliminate the need to swap batteries for recharging.
Nuvera president C Roberto Cordaro said the partnership was "a tremendous step" for the fuel cell industry. FIAMM president Giulio Dolcetta said the company was excited to be "exploring the world of fuel cells" with Nuvera.
The agreement will see Nuvera and FIAMM enter a two-year, three-phase development period aimed at making products available by 2005.
- Nuvera website-- FIAMM website-