The contract entails the initial delivery of ‘NM12 Single’ stack modules for integration into Hongqi’s next-generation fuel cell system, a premium brand of China’s FAW Group.
EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies GmbH and China’s FAW Group have signed a contract to develop and supply fuel cell stack modules. The NM12-Single platform prototypes will be used in a next-generation fuel cell vehicle from FAW’s premium brand, Hongqi. Carole Brinati, the managing director of EKPO, emphasized that Hongqi has always maintained high standards for quality and performance when choosing a partner. She highlighted that EKPO’s extensive development and deep technological expertise played a crucial role in this selection. Brinati also noted that the order strengthens the longstanding partnership between the two companies. She recalled that during the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, Hongqi’s shuttle vehicles were equipped with EKPO’s fuel cell stacks, which performed well even under extreme weather conditions. Brinati expressed her delight that Hongqi has once again opted for EKPO’s fuel cell technology.
The new order builds on EKPO’s connection with China, which has been strategically promoting its hydrogen economy for years. EKPO founded a Chinese subsidiary in 2022 and built up extensive development and production capacities.
The PEMFC stack module NM12-Single is suitable for applications in the passenger car sector and light commercial vehicles. It offers high power density with a compact design and low weight. It is based on robust and reliable technology that relies on low hydrogen consumption for reduced operating costs and longer ranges. In addition, simplified system integration is ensured by function-integrated media modules, assured quality and comprehensive documentation. NM12 Single, as well as all other EKPO stack platforms, are manufactured in an automated production process according to current automotive standards.
The China FAW Group, formerly China First Automobile Works, is one of China’s oldest and largest automobile manufacturers. Headquartered in the northern Chinese city of Changchun, Jilin Province, FAW has manufacturing facilities in northeast China’s Jilin, Liaoning and Heilongjiang provinces, east China’s Shandong Province and Tianjin City, southern China’s Guangxi Autonomous Region and Hainan Province, and southwest China’s Sichuan and Yunnan provinces.
