Zero-Emission Trucks: Quantron’s North American Ambitions

In a pivotal moment for the North American trucking sector, Germany-based Quantron has set its sights on becoming the undisputed leader in the realm of Zero-emission trucks. This bold aspiration is rooted in their commitment to revolutionizing the Class 8 market through the development of hydrogen-fuel-cell-electric vehicles, thus catalyzing a shift towards zero-emission transport solutions.

Richard Ansell, Vice President of Marketing for Quantron U.S., recently shared their ambitious plans with journalists visiting the company’s Augsburg, Germany headquarters. “Our entire strategy in the U.S. revolves around fuel cell technology in the Class 8 segment,” Ansell remarked. “Our goal is crystal clear – we aim to be the unrivaled leader in zero-emission trucking.”

Quantron’s strategic approach involves securing a supply agreement with Canada’s Ballard Power to provide cutting-edge fuel cells. Additionally, they are actively engaged in discussions with North American truck manufacturers to obtain the essential gliders serving as the chassis for their revolutionary trucks. Although these discussions are ongoing due to the prevailing strong demand for traditional vehicles, Quantron remains resolute in their commitment to the cause.

The cornerstone of Quantron’s vision lies in their initial truck design, which incorporates an impressive 80 kg of on-board hydrogen storage. This configuration translates into an astounding 750 miles of range, which is a remarkable feat for zero-emission trucks in the Class 8 category. However, their sights are set even higher, with plans to boost storage capacity to 120 kg, thereby offering a staggering 1,000 miles of range when the truck is fully loaded.

The innovative spirit at Quantron extends further as they explore the possibility of on-board liquid hydrogen storage, a technological advancement that could extend the range to the point where, with just two fuel stops, these trucks could journey from Miami to Los Angeles. This unparalleled range and quick refueling times solidify Quantron’s conviction that fuel-cell-electric trucks hold the key to zero-emission long-haul transport across North America.

Quantron’s investment in this vision is clearly reflected in their significant infrastructural preparations. They have established a sprawling 30,000 sq.-ft. facility in Auburn Hills, Michigan, capable of churning out up to 1,000 trucks each year. Furthermore, they have inked a “framework agreement” with an undisclosed logistics firm keen on acquiring 500 of their groundbreaking trucks. Quantron is also in active discussions with other fleet operators, indicating a growing industry interest in sustainable transport solutions.

Their partnership with FirstElement Fuel to build hydrogen refueling stations underscores their commitment to a comprehensive ecosystem. This network of fueling stations ensures that the necessary infrastructure for their hydrogen-powered trucks is in place. Notably, Quantron identifies Canada as a promising market, owing to its advanced infrastructure and potential for cost-effective hydrogen production, especially in regions like Quebec with ample, low-cost hydroelectric power.

While Quantron may be a newcomer to the North American scene, their track record of success in Europe is a testament to their dedication to sustainable transportation. Their existing line-up includes battery-electric and fuel-cell-electric trucks, such as the Class 3/4 QLI FCEV and the QHM FCEV Aero, which have demonstrated the company’s prowess in delivering innovative and efficient transport solutions.

The QLI FCEV offers a range of 450 km, with eight kilograms of on-board hydrogen storage and a 37-kWh high-voltage battery. What sets it apart is the swift five-minute refueling time, making it a practical choice for commercial trucking.

Moving up the scale, the QHM FCEV Aero is Quantron’s European heavy-duty offering, with a range spanning from 700 to 1,500 km, depending on hydrogen tank capacity. This impressive truck can be fueled in just 15 minutes, striking an optimal balance between range and quick refueling, which is essential for long-haul transportation.

Quantron’s commitment to efficiency doesn’t stop at fuel cells. They are actively engaged in efforts to optimize various facets of their trucks, including aerodynamics, torque demand, electric powertrain, fuel cell programming, overall weight, and tire rolling resistance. These endeavors have already yielded a 20% reduction in drag for their European heavy-duty truck, resulting in a 10% increase in range. Moreover, their fuel-cell-electric trucks equipped with 54-kg tanks boast the same weight as diesel trucks, eliminating the payload sacrifices often associated with heavy-duty battery-electric trucks.

Michael Perschke, CEO of Quantron, acknowledges that fuel-cell-electric trucks have a journey ahead to achieve total cost of operation parity with diesel. He foresees this milestone being reached as early as 2026, as truck production costs decrease and the cost of green hydrogen becomes more competitive. This shift will be bolstered by rising diesel prices, driven by increasing emissions-related taxes.

Quantron’s choice of FirstElement Fuel as their hydrogen fueling station partner is strategic, as FirstElement Fuel holds an 80% market share in California, making them a market leader in the U.S. The company has already dispensed about 6 million kilograms of hydrogen through 2.1 million fills and has established 40 hydrogen stations. Furthermore, they are gearing up to open their first commercial-scale heavy-duty truck fueling station at the Port of Oakland, capable of providing a substantial 15,000 kg of hydrogen per day – sufficient to keep 150-200 trucks running.

This cutting-edge station is set to become the world’s first facility capable of refueling trucks with up to 80 kg of hydrogen storage in less than 10 minutes. It represents a significant step toward making hydrogen fueling a seamless and efficient process for the growing fleet of fuel-cell-electric trucks.

In conclusion, Quantron’s ambitious plans and innovative approach to zero-emission trucking have the potential to reshape the commercial trucking industry in North America. Their unwavering focus on fuel-cell technology, remarkable range achievements, and relentless commitment to efficiency are all compelling indicators for truck drivers seeking to embrace a more sustainable future. As they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, Quantron is poised to lead the charge toward a greener, more efficient transportation industry on the continent. Stay tuned for more updates on Quantron’s remarkable journey in North America, as they take bold strides towards making zero-emission trucking a reality.