Ballard Power Systems has collaborated with global industry partners to design, assemble and deliver two zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell-powered terminal tractors – or yard trucks – for operation at the Port of Los Angeles (POLA), U.S.
The project opted to use a Ballard 85kW proton-exchange membrane fuel cell engine, supplemented by lithium-ion battery technology. The onboard vehicle energy storage consisted of 9.1kg of hydrogen at 350bar pressure, in addition to 85kWh of battery capacity with plug-in charge capability for off-shift or service charging.
With the ambition to scrutinize and validate the commercial viability of zero-emission yard trucks for operational service, the project team oversaw 12 months of testing at POLA, with 14-hour daily shifts supported by an on-site hydrogen fueling station.
Fueling quickly at the start of every day, the trucks have enough hydrogen fuel for busy operations during a long shift which involves moving heavy containers from docks to port gates. The activity recorded during daily duty cycles provides crucial data and insightful information to validate the long-term viability of the vehicles.
Photo of Ballard
Press release https://t.ly/rwo4r
