Mexican Media Brands
Bosch, Nikola Motors Partner on Long-Haul Fuel Cell Truck
Robert Bosch GmbH and Salt Lake City (Utah)-based startup Nikola Motor Co. are collaborating to commercialize two heavy-duty, fuel cell-powered trucks by 2021.
#hybrid
Share
Robert Bosch GmbH and Salt Lake City (Utah)-based startup Nikola Motor Co. are collaborating to commercialize two heavy-duty, fuel cell-powered trucks by 2021.
The Class 8 tractors, dubbed Nikola One (with sleeper cab) and Nikola Two (for day trips), aim for an operating range with load of 800-1,000 miles. Nikola says the Class 8 rigs will weigh nearly 2,000 lbs less than comparable diesel long-haul trucks and deliver at least twice the fuel economy with zero pollution.
Nikola first announced the truck program in mid-2016 and indicated the Nikola One would retail for $375,000. At the time, the company said it would set up a network of 50 hydrogen fueling stations across the U.S. to support its customers.
Nikola and Bosch are creating the six-wheel-drive electric powertrain for the trucks by mating a Nikola-developed fuel cell and 320-kWh lithium-ion battery with Bosch’s eAxle system. The latter technology integrates an 800-volt propulsion motor, electronic power control unit and two-speed transmission. A regenerative braking system helps extend range.
Nikola says the resulting powertrain will deliver 1,000 hp and 2,000 lb-ft of torque, making the two truck models about twice as powerful as conventional diesel long-haul rigs. The company says the layout puts powertrain components below the truck’s frame rails, resulting in a lower center of gravity and superior handling.
RELATED CONTENT
-
On The Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, and More
An inside look at the Detroit Assembly Complex-Mack; a innovative approach to waste-free, two-tone painting; why a forging press is like an F1 car; and other automotive developments.
-
Magna Advances Seating Configurations
Magna International is focusing on electrification, autonomy and smart mobility. This is taking the form of things ranging from an electrified system for rear axles (eDrive 1.0) to a collaborative arrangement with Lyft, which includes the co-development and manufacture of self-driving systems.
-
On Ford Maverick, Toyota Tundra Hybrid, and GM's Factory Footprint
GM is transforming its approach to the auto market—and its factories. Ford builds a small truck for the urban market. Toyota builds a full-size pickup and uses a hybrid instead of a diesel. And Faurecia thinks that hydrogen is where the industry is going.
