Fontaine Modification Leads Supplier Consortium to Develop and Deploy Fuel-Cell-Electric Class 6 Truck

Core Insights - Fontaine Modification is leading a consortium to develop a Class 6 fuel-cell-electric truck aimed at "middle mile" delivery logistics, collaborating with Ballard Power Systems, Forsee Power, and Linamar Corporation [1][3] Company Contributions - Fontaine Modification is the vehicle and systems integrator, assembling the fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) on a 26,000-pound GVWR straight truck chassis at its Charlotte modification center [2] - Ballard Power Systems is supplying the fuel cell system, specifically the FCmove®-XD, which offers up to 60% fuel efficiency and a volumetric power density of 0.36 kW/L [5] - Forsee Power is providing the high-voltage battery system critical for the FCEV's operation, optimizing performance for both long-distance and local deliveries [6] - Linamar Corporation is supplying the eAxle for the FCEV, contributing to its low-maintenance design and regenerative braking system [7] Project Timeline and Goals - The consortium plans to complete a pilot unit by summer 2025, which will undergo independent track testing before a six-month trial with a large commercial fleet in the U.S. [3] - Regular production of the truck is anticipated to begin as early as late 2026, contingent on the successful completion of the field trial [3] Market Context - The middle-mile segment involves freight transportation between warehouses or distribution centers, typically covering distances of 300 to 500 miles, making fuel-cell systems a suitable zero-emission option for this range [4]