CIMC-Hexagon, a joint venture company of CIMC Enric Holdings Limited and Hexagon Purus producing H₂ cylinder and systems solutions for mobility and infrastructure applications in China and Southeast Asia, has delivered its first batch of Type IV high-pressure H₂ cylinders for use in Hexagon Purus’ H₂ distribution modules in Europe. CIMC-Hexagon has obtained the European Transportable Pressure Equipment Directive (TPED) certification allowing for delivery of H₂ storage solutions to the European market.

Consequently, the newly completed cylinder manufacturing facility in Shijiazhuang is now ramping up with production of 380 bar distribution cylinders intended for customers in Europe. This initial ramp-up phase is an important step in achieving certification for Type IV high-pressure H₂ cylinders for the domestic Chinese market.

Expanding Type IV cylinder technology in China and Southeast Asia. Type IV H₂ storage vessels are characterized by lightweight design, high pressure tolerance, superior H₂ storage density, corrosion resistance, and extended lifespan, making it the preferred H₂ technology for bulk hauling and onboard storage in mobility applications.

The Chinese market has relied predominantly on Type III cylinder technology for storage of H₂ onboard mobility applications. In June 2024, China officially implemented domestic production standards for Type IV cylinders, enabling localized manufacturing and sales, which will accelerate the commercialization of Type IV cylinder technology. CIMC-Hexagon is currently going through the process to achieve Chinese certification and to scale up production to meet the growing demand in China and Southeast Asia.

Li Hui, General Manager of CIMC-Hexagon, said, "To address the rapidly growing market demand for Type IV cylinder technology, we are building robust production and service capabilities for China and Southeast Asia. The delivery of these H₂ cylinders to Europe is a critical step to develop local certification in China as well as ramping up production capacity.”

Xu Yongsheng, President of H₂ Business Center of CIMC Enric, said, “China is targeting global leadership in H₂ technologies, creating attractive opportunities for both H₂ distribution and mobility applications. We are looking forward to CIMC-Hexagon continuing to develop a competitive offering for China and Southeast Asia.”

Michael Kleschinski, EVP, H₂ Mobility and Infrastructure at Hexagon Purus, said, “China is an attractive market for Hexagon Purus, and we have a great partnership with CIMC Enric. We are very satisfied with reaching the milestone of ramping up cylinder production, an important step in the direction of getting necessary approvals in China.”