cellcentric takes important steps in preparation for large scale production of fuel cells for trucks

cellcentric is building the KLIMA|WERK for fuel cell production in Weilheim/Teck - a step towards decarbonizing heavy goods transport by 2030.

cellcentric notarizes property for KLIMA|WERK - fuel cell production for CO2-neutral heavy goods transport

Kirchheim/Teck - After delays in recent years, cellcentric and the city of Weilheim/Teck notarized on December 20, 2024 the desired land acquisition agreement for the property on which the KLIMA|WERK is to be built. KLIMA|WERK will be cellcentrics future central site for large-scale production and commercialization of the innovative NextGen fuel cell system for trucks on the way to the decarbonization of long-haul and heavy-duty transport.

“cellcentric is preparing for the future scaling of fuel cell systems by already firmly reserving 16 ha of land in Weilheim. Our company is thus part of driving the transformation towards a sustainable transportation industry,” says Niklas Ekström, Chief Financial Officer at cellcentric.

The central component for the subsequent scaling is the construction of a suitably designed fuel cell production site - the KLIMA|WERK. The aim of cellcentric is to implement the start of operations for large-scale production at the Weilheim/Teck site in line with the introduction of EU CO2 legislation - according to current estimates, this will happen around 2030.

For cellcentric, maximum flexibility in terms of scope of work and start-up speed of the KLIMA|WERK is of crucial importance. This requirement was realized by the city of Weilheim with this option agreement. The required flexibility caused by the transformation in the automotive industry, the delayed development of the necessary hydrogen infrastructure, and the availability and pricing of green hydrogen means that also cellcentric can only act according to the volatile market environment at present. The company is thus flexibly positioning itself for different ramp-up scenarios for fuel cell trucks in order to be able to react optimally to future market conditions.

The company wants to be prepared in case a longer ramp-up phase is necessary. This can currently be observed in the market for electric vehicles. Ultimately, the right time of market growth must be planned for the investment in Weilheim.

Meanwhile, cellcentric is therefore continuing to drive forward the industrialization of the current fuel cell production utilizing highly efficient industrial-grade production processes at the existing, modern site in Esslingen. This is an important milestone on the road to large-scale production according to automotive standards, using efficient production processes, and at the same time to CO2-neutral mobility in tomorrow's heavy-duty transport.

The development of fuel cell trucks is also being driven forward on the shareholder side. The Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck is just as suitable for flexible and demanding long-haul road transportation as conventional diesel trucks. In September 2023, Daimler Truck successfully demonstrated this, when a public road approved prototype of the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck completed the #HydrogenRecordRun, covering 1,047 km with one tank filling of liquid hydrogen on board. Already five customers are currently deploying these trucks in initial customer trials, gaining first experience with fuel cell vehicles. It is anticipated that another fleet of 100 next generation fuel cell trucks will be delivered from the end of 2026 onwards. All in preparation for a planned series production of fuel cell trucks towards the end of the decade.

Fuel cell electric vehicles are, in parallel with battery electric and combustion engines running on biofuels such as hydrogen, an integral part of the Volvo Group’s strategy to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. After showcasing its first fuel cell solutions in 2023, Volvo Group is continuing the testing of its fuel cell electric trucks on public roads – most notably in the extra-challenging cold climates of the Arctic Circle – and are preparing for customer trials.

cellcentric develops, produces, and markets fuel cell systems for use in heavy-duty commercial vehicles as the focus as well as offroad applications. cellcentric is a joint venture founded in 2021 between Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group. The company utilizes the know-how and extensive experience gained from decades of developing fuel cell systems by its predecessor companies. cellcentric’s goal is to become a leading global manufacturer of fuel cells and thus making a contribution to climate-neutral and sustainable transportation by 2050. More than 560 highly qualified employees are driving our state-of-the-art fuel cell technology forward. They work in interdisciplinary teams at our sites in Kirchheim/Teck, Stuttgart, Esslingen (Germany) and Burnaby (Canada). Around 700 individual patents granted, underline the company’s leading role in technological development.

About cellcentric

Christian Kleinert

Press contact

cellcentric - the fuel cell joint venture of Daimler Truck and Volvo Group - and the city of Weilheim conclude a land acquisition option contract for the future large scale Fuel Cell production.

Preparation for industrialization of fuel cell manufacturing is ongoing at the pilot factory in Esslingen.

European premiere at IAA Transportation: cellcentric gives exclusive insights into NextGen fuel cell system for sustainable heavy-duty transportation

At IAA Transportation 2024, cellcentric unveils its NextGen fuel cell system for long-haul trucks. 375 kW power, 20% less fuel consumption, and higher power density for CO2-neutral transport.

European Premiere - NextGen Fuel Cell System

Esslingen/Hannover (Germany) – As a sustainable solution for CO2-neutral mobility in global road transportation, cellcentric will be presenting a virtual model of its NextGen fuel-cell system for long-haul heavy-duty transport for the first time at the IAA Transportation in Hanover, Germany from September 16 to 22 (Hall H24, booth C11). This virtual model provides a preview of the dimensions and design of the game changing new generation of fuel-cell systems. With a total weight of less than 400 kg, this new system is designed for conventional 13-liter diesel engine compartments. The new single-packaging fuel-cell system will combine high efficiency and performance with market leading TCO. In addition, the system is characterized by higher operating temperatures and lower cooling requirements*.

NextGen fuel cell system:
Target performance figures (*vs. benchmark fuel cell system BZA150)

Up to 375 kW (more than 500 horsepower) continuous net power

40% reduction of waste heat at 300 kW net power*

Current BZA150 production of fuel cell systems in Esslingen (Germany) is a milestone towards reaching CO2-neutral mobility in the heavy-duty transport of tomorrow, utilizing highly efficient industrial-grade production processes. Furthermore, the industrialized pilot production in Esslingen marks another step towards the arrival of Europe's largest fuel cell production facility – the new KLIMA|WERK factory in Weilheim – which is planned to open towards the end of the decade.

Start of ramp-up to highly efficient large-scale production

cellcentric develops, produces, and markets fuel cell systems for use in heavy-duty commercial vehicles as the focus as well as offroad applications. cellcentric is a joint venture founded in 2021 between Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group. The company utilizes the know-how and extensive experience gained from decades of developing fuel cell systems by its predecessor companies. cellcentric’s goal is to become a leading global manufacturer of fuel cells and thus making a contribution to climate-neutral and sustainable transportation by 2050. More than 560 highly qualified employees are driving our state-of-the-art fuel cell technology forward. They work in interdisciplinary teams at our sites in Nabern, Stuttgart-Untertuerkheim, Esslingen (Germany) and Burnaby (Canada). Around 700 individual patents granted, underline the company’s leading role in technological development.

cellcentric_NextGen_European premiere at IAA Transportation.pdf

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Virtual model shows the design of NextGen fuel cell system

Important step towards CO2-neutral mobility in global road transportation

Industrial-grade prototype production now in operation and preparation of large-scale series production of fuel cells towards the end of the decade is ongoing

Pioneer in Europe with the aim of producing fuel cell systems on an industrial scale with a high level of vertical integration

Exclusive insights at IAA Transportation 2024: European premiere of the cellcentric NextGen fuel cell system

At IAA Transportation 2024, cellcentric presents the European premiere of its NextGen fuel cell system for heavy-duty trucks. Explore the 3D model and learn about its performance.

Exclusive Insights at IAA Transportation 2024

Esslingen/Hannover (Germany) – European premiere at IAA Transportation: cellcentric presents a virtual 3D model of its future NextGen fuel cell system for heavy- duty transport for the first time at the leading international trade fair in Hanover (September 17 to 22/press day September 16, Hall 24, Booth No. C11). The study provides a preview of the dimensions and design of the game-changing new generation of fuel cell systems. At the same time, cellcentric announces performance data for the efficient single-packaging fuel cell system, which will offer market-leading TCO.

Highly efficient large-scale production about to start

The virtual 3D model signals the start of cellcentric’s NextGen, the highly efficient and competitive single-packaging fuel cell system designed for long-haul heavy-duty transportation, which will offer market-leading TCO. Following the development phase and prototype production of fuel cell systems, cellcentric is now initiating the preliminary stage of highly efficient industrial production by taking first steps and preparing for high-scale production in the recently inaugurated factory in Esslingen. Also, the pilot production at cellcentric’s Esslingen site marks the step towards preparing Europe’s largest fuel cell production in a new factory in Weilheim – the KLIMA|WERK – that is planned towards the end of the decade.

Fuel cell deep dives: From Tuesday, September 17, to Sunday, September 22, cellcentric offers an informative expert presentation at its booth at 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. Let us know if you’re interested. You can find further information and the opportunity to book an individual appointment with our experts by clicking here: cellcentric @ IAA Transportation 2024

Useful information

cellcentric_IAA Transportation_Exclusive insights in NextGen.pdf

Fuel cell system for heavy-duty transportation in a virtual 3D model for the first time

 European leading fuel cell manufacturer takes the first steps from prototype production to highly efficient large-scale production

Important step towards CO2-neutral mobility in global road transport

cellcentric starts pilot production of fuel cell systems

cellcentric inaugurates pilot production of fuel cell systems in Esslingen, a significant milestone for CO2-neutral mobility in heavy-duty transport.

Launching Pilot Production of Fuel Cell Systems for Long-Haul Trucks

Esslingen/Germany – A key milestone for the climate-neutral transport of tomorrow: cellcentric inaugurates pilot production for fuel cell systems at the Esslingen-Pliensauvorstadt site, taking another significant step towards large-scale production. cellcentric is working towards supplying fuel cells on a large scale by the end of the decade, when fuel cell powered long-haul heavy-duty trucks are predicted to become a key technology for sustainable transportation.

cellcentric’s goal is to develop, produce and distribute fuel cell systems on a large scale in the German state of Baden-Wuerttemberg that achieve the best possible total cost of ownership (TCO) in the highly competitive transportation industry. In addition, cellcentric intends to cover the entire fuell cell ecosystem – from the product itself to maintenance and recycling at the end of its life cycle.

“Fuel cell technology is a well-proven solution for CO2-neutral long-distance heavy-duty transportation. However, it has not yet been produced on an industrial scale, which is precisely the key to achieving economies of scale, optimizing the total cost of ownership (TCO) and putting cellcentric in a solid competitive position in the long term,” says Lars Johansson, Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Organizational Officer of cellcentric GmbH & Co. KG. “The opening of our pilot production facility in Esslingen today is not the end point of large-scale production, but rather the blueprint for the next step. In the coming years, we will continue to consistently drive forward the industrialization and scaling of production of fuel cell systems at the Weilheim site,” explains Johansson.

On June 20th, Lars Johansson and the cellcentric management team welcomed numerous guests from politics, business, associations, science and research to the opening ceremony, including Baden-Wuerttemberg state ministers Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut (Economics, Labor and Housing) and Thekla Walker (Environment, Climate and Energy) as well as Heinz Eininger, the district administrator of Esslingen, and the mayors of Esslingen, Matthias Klopfer, and Weilheim, Johannes Zuefle.

Fuel cell systems for sustainable heavy goods transport on the way to mass production

cellcentric’s modern production facility in Esslingen-Pliensauvorstadt is the ideal location to produce fuel cell systems. More than 100 employees have over 10,300 square meters of production, logistics and office/administration space at their disposal. The property in the immediate vicinity of the federal highway 10 is part of the Esslingen industrial park greenfield.

In a next step, cellcentric will establish the necessary production processes at the site to prepare for the start of a large-scale production of fuel cell systems with a high degree of vertical integration. With complete production at one location and a high level of automation, the company secures stable long-term economic development.

The complete process chain comprises the following production steps:

Ink Mixing & Coating – Precise mixing of the various raw materials to produce a dispersion for subsequent roll coating.

Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) – The roll-to-piece process assembles and puts together the components of the individual cell in a highly automated process in a cycle time suitable for large-scale production.

Sealing – Injection molding process applies seals in fully automated process.

Stacking – Automated stacking of the complete fuel cell stack.

Assembly – All modules of the fuel cell system are assembled according to automotive mass production standards.

Inline Quality Testing – Strict automated inspection and quality control protocol that accompanies all steps in the production process to identify and rectify faults quickly and reliably. It ensures continuous compliance with all quality requirements until the product is ready for delivery.

Fuel cell ecosystem beyond the product life cycle

In addition to the development and production of fuel cell systems for heavy-duty transportation, cellcentric will create a complete ecosystem around the highly complex assemblies. This will provide customers with products of unique quality while enabling seamless integration of the drive solutions into the vehicle management system. Moreover, a comprehensive service package including all maintenance and repair services will ensure that maintenance-related downtimes and unforeseen failures or breakdowns are reduced to a minimum for users – an important criterion in the transport industry for the best possible utilization of vehicle capacity.

Ultimately, cellcentric is planning an environmentally friendly return of the fuel cell systems at the end of their life cycle, in line with the company’s commitment to the highest possible level of sustainability in all corporate processes. Based on the concept of the circular economy, cellcentric’s cyclical approach aims to use resources, materials and products as considerately and sparingly as possible in four steps:

These include the Reuse of decommissioned fuel cell systems for other applications with a lower requirement profile, Refurbishment, a reconditioning and recycling of fuel cell systems for a longer useful service life, Remanufacturing – the total overhaul to refurbish and make the systems as good as new again -, and the recovery of raw materials and reuse in new fuel cell production through Recycling.

Sustainable propulsion technology for global heavy-duty transportation

In May 2024, cellcentric presented its smaller, more powerful and efficient NextGen fuel cell system for sustainable hydrogen-powered long-haul trucks for the first time at the ACT Expo in Las Vegas, USA. In addition, with the BZA150 fuel cell generation, the company has a close to series production and already practical pilot product that has been successfully tested by the truck manufacturers Daimler Truck and Volvo Group in demanding field tests. Series production of the NextGen fuel cell system is scheduled to begin at the end of the decade.

Further pictures are available for download at:
https://cellcentric.net/en/media/

cellcentric develops, produces, and markets fuel cell systems for use in heavy-duty commercial vehicles as the focus as well as for other areas of application outside vehicles. cellcentric is a joint venture founded in 2021 between Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group. The company utilizes the know-how and extensive experience gained from decades of developing fuel cell systems by its predecessor companies. cellcentric’s goal is to become a leading global manufacturer of fuel cells and thus making a contribution to climate-neutral and sustainable transportation by 2050. More than 520 highly qualified employees are driving our state-of-the-art fuel cell technology forward. They work in interdisciplinary teams at our sites in Nabern, Stuttgart-Untertuerkheim, Esslingen (Germany) and Burnaby (Canada). Around 700 individual patents granted, underline the company’s leading role in technological development.

cellcentric announces its NextGen fuel cell system tailored for long-haul trucks in Europe as well as in North America

cellcentric unveils its NextGen fuel cell system for long-haul trucks, offering over 350 kW power, 20% fuel savings, and enhanced durability.

Announcement of NextGen Fuel Cell System for Long-Haul Trucks

Fuel cell system specialist cellcentric announces its innovative NextGen fuel cell system tailored for long-haul trucks also in North America. As a new player with many years of expertise, the company with European and Canadian roots will announce its NextGen fuel cell system tailor-made for sustainable hydrogen-powered long-haul trucks for the first time at the trade fair, alongside its BZA150 fuel cell generation, which has been successfully tested in demanding field tests by Truck OEMs, Daimler Truck and Volvo Group. As a key element of the sustainable mobility transition in heavy goods transport and haulage trucking, the pioneering system was also developed with a particular focus on transportation requirements in North America (USMCA). The target is to start Series production at the end of the decade.

With a compact design and a net output of more than 350 kW as well as a low weight thanks to the highly integrated single system package solution, the NextGen system achieves the performance characteristics of comparable long-haul conventional heavy-duty trucks while reducing fuel consumption by 20 percent compared to the current generation BZA150 fuel cell generation. This is also enabled by a power density increase of 30 percent compared to the current generation. Especially relevant for easy truck vehicle integration: the system design and performance enables a 40 percent reduction in waste heat at peak load, thus substantially lowering cooling requirements for the truck – a key strategic product fit improvement.

“Our NextGen fuel cell system takes heavy-duty zero-emission transportation capability to a new level,” Nicholas Loughlan, CTO of cellcentric GmbH & Co. KG, says at the ACT Expo. “The performance features are tailored to meet the high demands of heavy-duty long-haul truck transport, which is highly sensitive to Total Cost of Ownership, in all aspects – but above all in fuel efficiency – without compromising on range, durability, or reliability. During development, we also specifically considered North American transportation requirements, especially regarding the long-haul segment. With its TCO Benchmark Performance, cellcentric’s NextGen is a zero-emission heavy-duty long-haul game changer that will allow us to play a significant role in shaping the sustainable transportation transition, also in this important market,” says Loughlan.

Reliable, robust, and sustainable in the long term 

In addition, the cellcentric engineering teams have designed the NextGen fuel cell system to be as robust as is to be expected given the requirements of the challenging long-haul heavy-duty business: the system’s lifetime will deliver around 25,000 operating hours. The NextGen fuel cell system is also characterized by a high degree of sustainability beyond its useful life.

Fuel cell system also meets transportation requirements in the USMCA market

The strategic considerations taken in the product design specifically cater to the North American market: demand for hydrogen-based mobility solutions is growing in the USMCA market, triggered by the US subsidy measure in the form of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). In addition, the EPA’s recent final rule: “Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles - Phase 3” will also help pave the way for heavy-duty zero emission vehicles in the US.

With this market outlook, cellcentric is driving the development of the highly TCO-optimized NextGen fuel cell system, taking the requirements of long-haul heavy-duty transportation in North America into account starting in the initial design phase.

Highly integrated, compact and low-weight single system package solution

A peak power above 350 kW – ideal for transportation requirements in both the European and the North American market 

Highly efficient with expected fuel consumption savings of 20 percent compared to the BZA150 generation, enabling leading total cost of ownership

Reliable, robust, and sustainable beyond its life cycle

ACT Expo – cellcentric showcases fuel cell tailormade for long-haul trucks

At ACT Expo 2024, cellcentric unveils its NextGen fuel cell for long-haul trucks. High efficiency and quick refueling for heavy-duty transport.

Showcase of Custom Fuel Cell at ACT Expo 2024

Three decades of concentrated expertise in fuel cell development: cellcentric was established in March 2021 as a 50:50 joint venture between Daimler Truck AG and Volvo Group. Both are leading companies in the commercial vehicle industry and not only bring their financial backing to this joint venture but, above all, also their expertise in the sustainable hydrogen-powered drivetrain of the future.

cellcentric is an independent company with more than 520 employees that engages in the development, production and marketing of fuel cell power units for the commercial vehicle industry. When integrating fuel cell systems into vehicles, cellcentric’s development teams work closely with the respective customers’ R&D teams to further optimize the fuel cell application to meet individual requirements.

Many cellcentric employees originating from one of the two companies, as well as the successful cooperation with Daimler Truck and the Volvo Group, ensure that cellcentric has an excellent understanding of transportation sector needs. Added to that is profound knowledge of efficient high-volume manufacturing to the highest quality standards. To date, cellcentric has made around 700 patent applications – underscoring its leading role in fuel cell development.

Background to the strategic decision to enter the North American market: Demand for hydrogen-based mobility solutions is growing in the USMCA market as a consequence of favorable US regulatory environment and incentives to decarbonize. This market outlook prompted cellcentric to significantly accelerate development of its highly innovative NextGen fuel cell, taking into account the needs of long-haul heavy goods traffic in North America from the earliest concept phase.

NextGen enables Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and performance characteristics comparable with those of diesel-powered long-haul trucks. Alongside excellent drivability and outstanding range, these include short refueling stops similar to those of conventionally powered heavy trucks. Fuel cell trucks are ideally suited to decarbonize flexible and demanding long-haul road transportation. They can also be operated in areas where electric charging options are limited and demands on
vehicle flexibility are high.

“Our NextGen fuel cell impressively demonstrates that the transition to sustainable, environmentally friendly drive technologies can already be a reality on the North American market, even in tough heavy-duty haulage,” said Nicholas Loughlan, CTO at cellcentric GmbH & Co. KG. “The fact that it is compact, efficient and powerful means that we can even better fulfill the demands of heavy-duty long-haul. NextGen is engineered for high mileage and trimmed for cost efficiency to make it the absolute champ in operating costs for heavy-duty trucks,” added Loughlan.

Should you visit ACT in Las Vegas, we invite you to visit us on booth 3045. You can find further information and the opportunity to reserve and individual appointment with our experts by clicking here: cellcentric.net/en/actexpo/

Furthermore, we would like to draw your attention to two more events taking place in and around the trade fair:

Hydrogen Workshop – The Current Landscape for Heavy-Duty Hydrogen Vehicles: panel discussion with Nicholas Loughlan, CTO at cellcentric GmbH & Co. KG, on Monday, May 20, 12:45 – 13:45 p.m.

Fuel cell deep dives: informative expert presentations at the cellcentric booth 3045 – for appointments and registration, click here: cellcentric.net/en/actexpo/

cellcentric develops, produces, and markets fuel cell systems for use in heavy commercial vehicles as the focus as well as for other areas of application outside vehicles. cellcentric is a joint venture between Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group, which was founded in 2021. The company utilizes the know-how and extensive experience gained from several decades of fuel cell development work at its predecessor companies. cellcentric’s goal is to become a leading global manufacturer of fuel cells and thus contribute to climate-neutral and sustainable transportation by 2050. More than 520 highly qualified employees are driving our state-of-the-art fuel cell technology forward. They work in interdisciplinary teams at locations in Nabern, Stuttgart-Untertürkheim, Esslingen (Germany) and Burnaby (Canada). Around 700 individual patents have been granted, underlining the company’s leading role in technological development.

Christian Kleinert
+49 (0)175 5337198
christian.kleinert@cellcentric.net

Fuel cell fulfills transportation demands in the USMCA market

New player with decades of expertise and market-specific innovations: fuel cell specialist cellcentric officially showcases fuel cell tailormade for long-haul trucks, for the first time in North America at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in the Las Vegas Convention Center (May 20-23, booth 3045). At the trade fair, the company with European roots and Canadian heritage presents its tailormade close-to-production solution for the long-haul trucks of the future, sustainably powered by hydrogen and fuel cells.

Give office furniture a second life! cellcentric donation campaign for Lebenshilfe Kirchheim e. V.

Through an office furniture donation campaign, cellcentric raised €3,545 for Lebenshilfe Kirchheim e.V., supporting their project to create a day structure for seniors with disabilities.

Donation to Lebenshilfe Kirchheim e.V.

Kirchheim/Teck-Nabern – As part of the “New work environment” project – the creation of flexible workplaces at the cellcentric site in Kirchheim-Nabern – cellcentric employees had the opportunity to purchase functional office furniture on a donation basis and give it a second life in its new home. A total of 3,545 euros was raised, which was to be donated to a local organization. The choice fell on Lebenshilfe Kirchheim e. V., which cares for handicapped people with great commitment on a daily basis.

Andrea Engelen, Head of External Relations and Sustainability, and Anja Meisel, Head of Human Resources, presented this donation on behalf of cellcentric to Irmgard Schwend, Deputy Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Lebenshilfe Kirchheim, and Cornelia Klee, Managing Director of Lebenshilfe Kirchheim, in Kirchheim on April 10, 2024. “We are delighted to be able to support Lebenshilfe Kirchheim in its admirable commitment to enabling people with intellectual or multiple disabilities to lead independent and self-determined lives,” emphasized Andrea Engelen. “As cellcentric, we are once again expressing our commitment to the Kirchheim location.”

Cornelia Klee says: “On behalf of our residents, I would like to thank the managers and employees of cellcentric for their generous donation. We are using it to purchase some of the necessary equipment for the day structure for senior citizens currently being planned at the Saarstrasse site. This will enable us to offer our residents an everyday structure for their well-deserved retirement even after their active working life in the workshops for people with disabilities. The solidarity of the cellcentric company takes us a decisive step further on our path.”

cellcentric develops, produces, and markets fuel cell systems for use in heavy commercial vehicles as the focus as well as for other areas of application outside vehicles. cellcentric is a joint venture between Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group, which was founded in 2021. The company utilizes the know-how and extensive experience gained from several decades of fuel cell development work at its predecessor companies. cellcentric’s goal is to become a leading global manufacturer of fuel cells and thus contribute to climate-neutral and sustainable transportation by 2050. More than 450 highly qualified employees are driving our state-of-the-art fuel cell technology forward. They work in interdisciplinary teams at locations in Nabern, Untertürkheim, Esslingen (Germany) and Burnaby (Canada). Around 700 individual patents have been granted, underlining the company’s leading role in technological development.

Christian Kleinert
Fon: +49 (0)175 5337198
E-Mail: christian.kleinert@cellcentric.net

Cornelia Klee (Managerin Director)
Fon: +49 (0)7021 97066-11, Mobil: +49 (0)173 4387486
E-Mail: c.klee@lebenshilfe-kirchheim.de

The fuel cell manufacturer cellcentric donates 3,545 euros to Lebenshilfe Kirchheim e. V. as the result of a successful campaign by employees at the Nabern site.

With focus and speed into the next phase

cellcentric announces an update to its product and industrialization strategy. CEO Dr. Matthias Jurytko will step down in April 2024.

Announcement of new Product Strategy and CEO Transition

Kirchheim Teck-Nabern – cellcentric, the 50:50 fuel cell joint venture of Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group, announces an update to its product and industrialization strategy and a related change in organizational structure to respond to changing market conditions and position the company even better for future growth and success.

Since the company’s inception in March 2021, market conditions have changed significantly. In particular, the slow progress in providing sufficient hydrogen infrastructure and an appropriate hydrogen price is delaying the initially predicted market ramp-up for fuel cells. At the same time, there are positive developments, such as the continuous technological leaps in fuel cells and a growing market potential in a wide variety of heavy-duty applications, which is triggered by decisions in CO₂ legislation, such as the recent investment surge in hydrogen triggered by the US government’s Inflation Reduction Act.

The latter developments, in particular, represent a great opportunity for cellcentric, which the company wants to take advantage of and has therefore made adjustments to its product and industrialization strategy. On the product side, new product innovations with significantly increased efficiency, optimized system architecture and improved waste heat concept are in preparation, with the aim of further optimizing the total cost of ownership of the product for the end customer. The company is responding to the delayed market ramp-up with a staggered ramp-up of series production depending on market demand, with the start of production at the existing pre-series site in Esslingen and subsequent scaling at the planned Klima|werk in Weilheim.

Structural changes for consistent implementation

With the completion of this new strategic orientation, Dr. Matthias Jurytko, Chief Executive Officer with responsibility for Legal & Intellectual Property, External Affairs, Sales, Marketing and Communication, Quality Management and Corporate Strategy, will step down from his position as Chairman of the Management Board at his own request on April 30, 2024 and will be available to the company in an advisory capacity until the end of the year. This decision is based on the successful completion of the start-up phase and the successful adoption of the company’s strategic orientation. “After the definition and adoption of the product and industrialization strategy and the successful start of the transformation of the company’s processes and structures, a new phase in the development of cellcentric is now beginning. This phase is characterized by the consistent implementation of the decisions made, which I place in the trustworthy hands of my existing managing director colleagues. In this context, the tasks of the CEO will be integrated into the existing structures,” says Matthias Jurytko.

Martin Daum, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler Truck AG: “We respect Matthias Jurytko’s decision and thank him from the bottom of our hearts for his great commitment and outstanding work over the past three years. Under his leadership, cellcentric has strategically realigned itself, successfully mastered the start-up phase and laid the foundations for large-scale production, which we are convinced will set standards. We wish Matthias Jurytko all the best for his future.”

After completing his doctorate, Dr. Jurytko joined what was then Mercedes-Benz AG in 1990. After holding various positions in Stuttgart, Kassel, South Africa and Rastatt, he took over as Head of Controlling and Accounting at Mercedes-Benz Engines in Mannheim in 2001 before taking over as Head of Controlling for the Powertrain Daimler Trucks division in 2006. Prior to his current position, Jurytko was head of the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth and before that he was head of the Mercedes-Benz plant in Gaggenau.

Together with the shareholders, the cellcentric management team, consisting of Nicholas Loughlan, Lars Johansson and Niklas Ekström, has decided to integrate the areas and tasks previously held by the CEO into the existing corporate structure and thus leave the implementation in the hands of those who have also been involved in the development of the strategy this is now to be implemented. From now on, the goal of the management is to drive forward the implementation of the product and industrialization strategy in a focused manner and at high speed, thus further strengthening the company’s competitive position in the developing market environment in order to make cellcentric a leading Tier 1 manufacturer of fuel cells.

cellcentric announces update of product and industrialization strategy as well as structural changes.

Update of product and industrialization strategy to respond to changing market conditions and to position the company for future growth and success.

Dr. Matthias Jurytko, Chief Executive Officer, will leave the company at his own request on April 30, 2024.

Supervisory Board and Management would like to thank Dr. Matthias Jurytko. Under his leadership, cellcentric has successfully transitioned from the start-up phase to pre-series production and large-scale development.

Research for sustainability: cellcentric donates fuel cell test bench to Esslingen University of Applied Sciences

cellcentric donates a fuel cell test bench to Esslingen University to support the master's program in Hydrogen Economy and accelerate sustainable technology research.

Donation of a Fuel Cell Test Bench to Esslingen University

The fuel cell company cellcentric has donated a fuel cell test bench to Esslingen University of Applied Sciences to support research and teaching in the field of renewable energy sources and the hydrogen economy. Company representatives have now handed over the donation to Esslingen University of Applied Sciences at an official event.

The generous donation from cellcentric enables Esslingen University of Applied Sciences to expand its scientific capacities for the training of future students on the new master’s degree course in Hydrogen Economy and Technology Management. The fuel cell test bench will be installed in the university’s laboratory on the Göppingen campus and will be used primarily by the Institute for Sustainable Energy Technology and Mobility (INEM).

“This support from cellcentric underlines the importance of partnerships between industry and educational institutions to drive progress in sustainable technologies and innovation,” comments Dr. Matthias Jurytko, CEO of cellcentric. “We are delighted to support Esslingen University of Applied Sciences in its commitment to a sustainable hydrogen economy and technology management. This partnership reflects our commitment to advancing the development and application of fuel cell solutions and thereby contributing to a greener future,” adds Katja Olsen, Head of process development of test methods and responsible project manager.

The fuel cell test bench will help to accelerate the understanding and development of hydrogen-based technologies. INEM director professor Dr. Ralf Wörner: “The fuel cell test bench supports our research work in the best possible way. It is particularly important for our future master’s students to be able to work on their research projects with good equipment right away.”

Further information on the master’s degree program

The new Master’s degree course in Hydrogen Economy and Technology Management will start in the summer semester of 2024 at the Göppingen campus of Esslingen University of Applied Sciences. It is aimed at young people who are interested in topics in the field of renewable energy sources with a focus on a hydrogen economy and hydrogen-based technologies. Applications can be submitted until January 15, 2024. The course lasts three semesters and concludes with a Master of Engineering.

The fuel cell manufacturer cellcentric is donating a fuel cell test bench to Esslingen University of Applied Sciences for the new master’s degree course in Hydrogen Economy and Technology Management, thereby supporting research and teaching in the field of hydrogen economy.

Personnel changes at cellcentric GmbH & Co.KG

Prof. Dr. Christian Mohrdieck, Chief Commercial Officer at cellcentric, will leave the company on December 31, 2023. Cellcentric thanks him for his contribution to hydrogen.

Personnel Change - Prof. Dr. Christian Mohrdieck to Depart

Personnel changes at cellcentric, the 50:50 fuel cell joint venture between Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group. Prof. Dr. Christian Mohrdieck Chief Commercial Officer with responsibility for Legal & Intellectual Property, External Affairs as well as Sales, Marketing and Communications will leave the company at his own request on December 31, 2023. 

Dr. Matthias Jurytko, CEO of cellcentric GmbH & Co KG: “We respect Christian Mohrdieck’ s decision. We would like to thank him for his decades of commitment to the hydrogen fuel cell and his outstanding work, which forms the foundation of today’s company. He has significantly shaped cellcentric with his expertise and leaves behind big footsteps. We wish him all the very best for the future.”

“The potential of the technology and the outstanding expertise of the employees have motivated and driven my work for over two decades,” says Christian Mohrdieck. 

Prof. Dr. Christian Mohrdieck had already been CEO of Mercedes-Benz Fuel Cell GmbH since 2015, which was first transferred to Daimler Truck Fuel Cell GmbH & Co. KG in June 2020 and then to cellcentric GmbH & Co. KG in March 2021, for which he was Managing Director. After studying physics, Prof. Mohrdieck began his professional career in 1989 in research at Daimler-Benz AG in Frankfurt. From 2003, he held various management positions in the research and development of alternative energy and drive systems. In 2012, Prof. Mohrdieck took over as Head of Fuel Cells at the Daimler Group. 

The successful spin-off of cellcentric from today’s Daimler Truck AG in March 2021 and the successful and sensitive dialog with the citizens of Weilheim with regard to the referendum in April 2022 are two of the numerous successes in which Prof. Dr. Christian Mohrdieck has played a key role in recent years.

Prof. Dr. Christian Mohrdieck, Chief Commercial Officer, wird auf eigenen Wunsch zum 31.12.2023 aus dem Unternehmen ausscheiden. Aufsichtsrat und Geschäftsführung danken Prof. Dr. CProf. Dr. Christian Mohrdieck, Chief Commercial Officer, will leave the company at his own request on December 31, 2023. The Supervisory Board and Management Board would like to thank Prof. Dr. Christian Mohrdieck. His expertise and commitment to the hydrogen fuel cell have had a decisive influence on cellcentric and its company history.hristian Mohrdieck. Seine Kompetenz und sein Engagement für die Wasserstoffbrennstoffzelle haben cellcentric und dessen Unternehmenshistorie entscheidend geprägt.

cellcentric is one of the most innovative medium-sized companies in Germany

cellcentric has been ranked among Germany’s top innovators in a study by stern magazine, leading in the energy sector with exceptional patent performance.

One of Germany’s Most Innovative SMEs Leading in Energy Sector

In a study conducted together with the Gesellschaft für Verbraucherstudien (DtGV), the stern magazine identified the most innovative medium-sized companies in Germany and presented the top 500. cellcentric was ranked 18th overall and even took first place in the energy category.

In cooperation with the German Society for Consumer Research (DtGV), stern magazine examined the patent performance of German SMEs, defined as companies with an annual turnover of less than one billion euros. All patents granted to German companies (< 1 billion euros turnover p.a.) in the period from 01.10.2021 to 30.09.2022 were taken into account. Companies were not allowed to apply for inclusion in the list. The independent DtGV Institute decided on the methodology together with the stern editorial team.

The company is delighted that its outstanding patent activities have been scientifically recognised. This award confirms cellcentric’s ambition to become one of the largest suppliers of fuel cells.

According to stern magazine and the German Society for Consumer Research (DtGV), cellcentric is one of the most innovative medium-sized companies in Germany. The German Society for Consumer Research (DtGV) used an objective, data-based methodology to determine the 500 most innovative medium-sized companies in Germany for stern magazine. The basis for this is the “patent performance” in the period from 1 October 2021 to 30 September 2022.

Hydrogen Week 2023 - Promotion of Clean Energy with Digital Factory Tour

From June 10 to 18, 2023, Hydrogen Week takes place. cellcentric contributes with a digital factory tour at the Nabern site to educate about the potentials of hydrogen as a clean energy source and showcase the latest industry developments.

Hydrogen Week 2023: cellcentric Promotes Awareness of Clean Energy – cellcentric

As part of the Week of Hydrogen, cellcentric opens its doors at the Nabern site and offers exclusive insights as part of a digital factory tour. The digital factory tour replaces the traditional tour and takes the viewer on a virtual journey that appeals to everyone. The production of the fuel cell unit is explained to bring the audience closer to the fascinating world of hydrogen technology. From research to assembly and quality control, the entire process is vividly illustrated.

The Week of Hydrogen, now in its fifth year, is a week-long, nationwide event that aims to raise awareness of hydrogen, its many applications and its importance as a clean energy carrier. It provides an excellent platform for companies, scientists and interested parties to present and discuss new technologies and projects in the field of hydrogen use. Participation in the events is free of charge and takes place throughout Germany, both in person and virtually.

You can now visit cellcentric’s virtual factory tour at the following link and get an exclusive insight into cellcentric’s production facilities.

During Hydrogen Week 2023, cellcentric offers a digital factory tour at its Nabern site to showcase hydrogen as a clean energy source. 

Girls‘ Power at cellcentric

On Girls' Day 2023, 11 girls from the region explored the world of fuel cell technology at cellcentric in Nabern. Through interactive tours, they learned how fuel cells work and their role in creating a sustainable energy future.

Girls' Day 2023 11 Girls Discover Fuel Cell Technology

On this year’s Girls’ Day, cellcentric welcomed 11 girls from the region to the company’s headquarters in Nabern. The participants from the 7th grade had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of fuel cell technology and to get to know the different departments at cellcentric.

The girls took part in a behind-the-scenes tour of the cellcentric factory in Nabern. This allowed them to learn interactively about the technology behind fuel cell technology. By participating in Girls’ Day, the girls were able to see first-hand how technology and innovation are applied in practice, learn how fuel cells work and how they can contribute to the development of clean energy and a more sustainable future.

About Girls’Day
Girls’ Day is an annual initiative supported by the German government to encourage young women to take up technical careers. The initiative makes an important contribution to an equal society in which girls and women have the same opportunities as boys and men to realize their professional dreams. cellcentric is participating in the initiative for the second time this year and is thus actively committed to promoting girls and women in technical professions.

11 girls immersed themselves in the world of fuel cell technology on Girls’ Day 2023 in Nabern. Girls’ Day is an important initiative of the German government to get girls interested in technical professions. This year, cellcentric will again welcome 11 girls from the region to the company’s headquarters in Nabern to give them an insight into the world of fuel cell technology.

Hannover Messe 2023

At Hannover Messe 2023, cellcentric showcases the BZA150, the latest generation of its fuel cell technology with 150kW power and a lifespan of 25,000 hours. Visit us at the Baden-Württemberg joint booth from April 17 to 21.

Hannover Messe 2023 - Unveiling Latest Fuel Cell Technology

cellcentric will present its latest innovations on the way to series production of fuel cells at Hannover Messe 2023. As a manufacturer of fuel cell systems, which are primarily used in heavy commercial vehicles to enable emission-free long-distance transport, cellcentric underlines its expertise in industrialisation. At its stand, cellcentric will present the latest generation of its fuel cell technology to the trade public. The new generation BZA150, which is planned for series production, features significant improvements in all relevant areas, including a net power of 150kW, a voltage range of 650-850VDC, a service life of approx. 25,000 operating hours and a weight of approx. 230kg.

From 17 to 21 April, visitors will find cellcentric at the joint stand of the state of Baden-Württemberg (Hall 12 | Stand 15).

Together with around 60 companies, universities, research institutes and clusters, Baden-Württemberg International (BW_i) will be presenting Baden-Württemberg as a location for business and science in various exhibition areas at the world’s largest industrial trade fair. This year’s motto is “THE LÄND @HM23. Moving ideas. Driving Change”. This year, THE LÄND will have a much more focused presence, with a total of two joint stands in the trend areas of “Energy Solutions” and “Digital Ecosystems”. In addition, Baden-Württemberg will be presenting itself for the first time as part of the YOUR FUTURE initiative for young people, which has been newly conceived and is being supported by Deutsche Messe.

cellcentric presents the latest generation of its fuel cell technology at the joint stand of the state of Baden-Württemberg. Presentation of the joungest generation of fuel cell systems with 150kW net power. Drastically improved lifetime and optimised design Designed specifically for energy-intensive commercial vehicles

Girls’ Day 2023: cellcentric invites 10 girls to discover the fuel cell

On Girls' Day 2023, cellcentric welcomes 10 girls to discover careers in engineering and science, with hands-on insights into fuel cell technology and sustainable mobility at the Nabern site.

Girls' Day 2023 - Explore Fuel Cell Technology and Engineering Careers

On Girls’ Day, girls broaden their range of career choices and learn “among themselves” about professions in technology, crafts, IT, natural sciences, and industry, and can test their skills in precisely these areas. They meet female role models and women in leading positions – this inspires and motivates.

We are happy that cellcentric is part of this initiative this year. Girls can expect an exciting day at the cellcentric site in Nabern, where girls from the 7th grade onwards can get to know different areas and professions at our company, such as design engineer or development engineer. There will also be other highlights, such as insights into our hydrogen and air-powered fuel cell, which enables climate-neutral and sustainable mobility.

Registration is done via the cellcentric profile on the Girls’ Day website. The website also provides step-by-step instructions and an overview of contact persons.

Girls’ Day again on April 27, 2023

On Girls’ Day, girls from the seventh grade onwards can discover professions in which mostly men have worked so far and in which the proportion of women is below 40 percent.

cellcentric and MAHLE cooperate in the supply of fuel cell components

cellcentric and MAHLE have signed a memorandum of understanding for the development and mass production of the flat membrane humidifier, enhancing fuel cell durability.

MAHLE and cellcentric - Collaborate on Fuel Cell Components

cellcentric, the 50:50 fuel cell joint venture of Daimler Truck AG and Volvo Group AB, and the technology group MAHLE have signed a letter of intent to cooperate in the field of fuel cell technology for use in heavy-duty commercial vehicles as well as for other applications with comparable requirements. The cooperation focuses on the development and series production of the system component flat membrane humidifier. Among other things, the innovation improves the durability of the fuel cell and thus ensures a longer service life. The flat membrane humidifier is to be used both in fuel cell systems for commercial vehicles and in stationary systems, such as emergency power generators.

“cellcentric has the intention to become a world leading manufacturer of fuel cells. Our fuel cell is explicitly designed for use in heavy trucks. Accordingly, it meets the high quality requirements of the automotive industry and the relevant standards. With MAHLE, we have a partner at our side that has decades of experience as an automotive supplier as well as broad expertise in fuel cell peripherals,” emphasizes cellcentric CEO, Matthias Jurytko.

“We are pleased that cellcentric has chosen MAHLE technology,” said Martin Wellhöffer, Corporate Executive Vice President Sales & Application Engineering at the MAHLE Group. “The agreement reached between MAHLE and cellcentric represents a valuable step towards a joint strategic future in the development of zero-emission powertrains.”
“The agreement is a vote of confidence in MAHLE’s technological expertise. The fuel cell is an important pillar of our Group strategy as part of our technology-open approach to designing climate-neutral mobility,” explained Martin Weidlich, Member of the MAHLE Management Board and responsible for the Filtration and Engine Peripherals business unit.
The flat membrane humidifier from MAHLE takes on a supporting role in the fuel cell system. In order to work as effectively and efficiently as possible, fuel cells must be supplied with sufficient fresh air and humidity. To ensure the correct moisture content in the fuel cell, conventional humidifiers use small hollow membrane fibers. MAHLE instead uses very thin membranes that are stacked in layers in the humidifier, thereby ensuring effective humidification of the fuel cells. The higher the humidity in the fuel cell, the more efficiently it works and the longer its service life.

MAHLE is a systems supplier for sustainable transportation and focuses on the overall system of powertrain and thermal management. In doing so, the technology group addresses precisely those topics that are particularly important for future emission-free mobility: Range, performance, total cost of ownership, and cabin comfort. At the same time, MAHLE is driving forward the development of fuel cells and has broad expertise in fuel cell peripherals.
cellcentric develops, produces and markets fuel cell systems for use in heavy-duty commercial vehicles as its main focus, as well as for other areas of application with comparable requirements. The company leverages the know-how and extensive experience gained from several decades of development work on fuel cells by its predecessor companies and pursues the goal of becoming a leading global manufacturer of fuel cells.

Memorandum of Understanding signed for the development and series production of the flat membrane humidifier system component The component increases the durability of fuel cells and will be used in commercial vehicles as well as other applications

cellcentric presents latest generation of its fuel-cell technology

At IAA Transportation 2022, cellcentric presents the BZA150 fuel cell with 150 kW output and 25,000 hours of service life for emission-free transport.

Unveiling the Next-Gen Fuel Cell at IAA Transportation 2022

At the IAA Transportation 2022, cellcentric, the 50:50 fuel-cell joint venture of Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group, will present its latest innovations on the way to fuel-cell series production. The company will debut its new generation fuel-cell system, with 150 kW net power and an improved design.

The manufacturer of fuel-cell systems, which are primarily used in heavy-duty commercial vehicles to enable emission-free long-distance transport, is thus underlining its industrialization expertise. In hall 24, booth C23 cellcentric presents two fuel-cell systems to the specialized public. Significant improvements in all relevant areas are provided by the new generation BZA150, which is intended for series production. It has a net power of 150 kW, the voltage range is between 650-850 VDC, the service life is approximately 25,000 operating hours, and the weight is around 230 kg.

“Our new development impressively demonstrates the potential of fuel cell technology,” said Dr. Matthias Jurytko, CEO at cellcentric GmbH & Co. KG. “After all, within just one generation, we have been able to increase net power by 36 percent while reducing weight by eight percent. Even more decisive, however, is the improved service life, which is now equivalent to that of a conventional diesel unit in long-distance use.” In the future, two of the newly developed units with a total net output of 300 kW will be used in long-distance trucks (twin system). They will be installed in place of the conventional powertrain.

Also on display at the IAA is the BZA100+ fuel-cell power unit. It has a net power of 110 kW, a voltage range of 600-750 VDC and a lifetime of 3,000 hours with a weight of 250 kg.

Special requirements for energy-intensive use provided

cellcentric not only adapts existing fuel cell technology. For crucial technology components, the company is developing a completely new generation of fuel-cell systems that meet the complex and special requirements of commercial vehicles in the heavy long-distance and heavy-duty sector. cellcentric’s fuel-cell systems enable high loading volumes and payloads as well as the required long-distance capability and flexibility. They keep trucks moving when there is no time to recharge – perfect for long distances and heavy loads and in parts of the world where charging options are limited.

Presentation of the new fuel cell system generation with 150 kW net power output Drastically improved service life and optimized design Specially developed for commercial vehicles with energy-intensive use

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