Horizon Fuel Cell recently unveiled its new VLS-IV 400kW fuel cell, offering material advantages in fuel cell applications, such as high power output, low cost, long lifespan, and high fault tolerance. This product has the potential to reduce hydrogen consumption in fuel cell heavy trucks by up to 20%, in addition to providing ample power for the heaviest on-road trucks and various other heavy equipment with challenging decarbonization pathways, the company said.

The new VLS-IV series fuel cells leverage the advantages of the company’s patented graphite-metal hybrid bipolar plate technology. The preceding VLS-III series was introduced in 2021.

Seeking the most cost-efficient production methods, Horizon has made comprehensive upgrades in the bipolar plate manufacturing processes. The graphite layer is produced using high-precision molding techniques, enhancing product consistency while reducing production costs by more than 50%.

The metal layer utilizes newly developed PVD carbon coating technology to improve conductivity and reduce contact resistance, further enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the stack. The hybrid bipolar plates are assembled using the company’s long-validated sealing technology, reliably integrating the graphite and metal layers.

Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies was founded in 2003, with a consistent focus on fundamental innovation in both materials and systems-level technology for fuel cell and electrolyser solutions. The launch of the VLS-IV 400kW fuel cell underscores the company's strong R&D capabilities and contributes to the global energy transition and a zero-carbon future, the company said.