GM’s latest fuel cell-related project is a H₂-based worksite ecosystem, centered around its fleet of medium duty fuel cell trucks. With funding awarded from the Department of Energy’s SuperTruck 3 program and the H₂ and Fuel Cell Technologies Office, GM is spearheading a pilot program that demonstrates real life applications of fuel cells for fleet and commercial customers.

Built on a similar frame to the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 5500 MD, these field evaluation fleet trucks will be powered by HYDROTEC fuel cell systems. The prototype trucks are expected to have a GM-estimated range greater than 300 miles and a 19,500-pound gross vehicle weight rating. The trucks operate in a native 800V architecture and can produce more than 300 kW peak power.

Southern Company, one of the United States’ largest utility companies, will receive HYDROTEC fuel cell-powered medium duty trucks to be used as shop vehicles at its worksites. Southern Company, together with GM and Nel ASA, will also demonstrate an integrated H₂ microgrid for fueling infrastructure, including a stationary fuel cell-based mobile power generator. Nel, a world-leading electrolyzer company, will provide the project with its advanced PEM electrolyzers, which can help create green H₂ onsite.

“These trucks and their accompanying H₂ infrastructure can help enable a zero-emissions solution for HD and MD truck customers looking to meet their clean energy goals as well as reduce their operational noise and carbon footprint,” said Charlie Freese, executive director of global HYDROTEC. “GM’s advanced fuel cell technology gives these trucks a competitive edge against their diesel counterparts, with comparable towing and payload capabilities.”