General Motors and Komatsu to Develop Hydrogen Fuel Cell Infrastructure

GM and Komatsu collaborate to develop hydrogen fuel cell infrastructure for the 930E electric drive mining truck. Both companies aim to provide eco-friendly solution for mining and construction equipment.

General Motors (GM), a leader in hydrogen fuel cell technology and Komatsu, a multinational mining and construction equipment manufacturer will jointly develop a hydrogen fuel cell power module for Komatsu’s 930E electric drive mining truck.

Significance of Using Hydrogen Fuel Cell

Komatsu’s 930E is the world’s best selling ultra class haul truck which has a nominal payload of 320 tons. This type of electric machine deploys a diesel powered generator, in other words, a diesel-electric hybrid system. The hybrid system still produces emissions hence the need for a greener fuel, hydrogen fuel cell.

These mining machines operate on a single mine throughout their entire life which makes it easier to develop effective hydrogen refuelling infrastructure to service the vehicle fleet, hence easier transition to an eco friendly fuel option.

The companies aim to test the prototype of the hydrogen fuel cell powered 930E mining truck sometime around the middle of this decade.

Company’s Commitment to Greener Solutions

Komatsu has set a target to cut its global emissions by 50% by 2030 and net zero carbon emissions by 2050. On the other hand, GM is aiming to be fully carbon neutral by 2040 in both operations and products.

Both companies are committed to decarbonising mining and construction equipment beyond battery static charging solutions. Hydrogen fuel cell technology provides excellent zero emission solutions for extreme hauling machinery such as the 930E.

The Executive Director of Hydrotec - Charlie Freese said, “At GM, we believe fuel cells can play an integral role in a zero-emissions future, helping to electrify heavier-duty applications, beyond passenger vehicles. Mining trucks are among the largest, most capable vehicles used in any industry, and we believe hydrogen fuel cells are best suited to deliver zero emissions propulsion to these demanding applications.”

While hydrogen is a more greener fuel source there are many challenges to deploying proper infrastructure. The strategic partnership between both companies will seek to successfully deploy hydrogen fuel cell technology to provide sustainable solutions.