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Bespoke tank systems with a 350-bar pressure rating

As a systems supplier, Wystrach is providing the hydrogen tank system for the prototype, bringing its vertical integration and its experience with hydrogen applications to the table. “We worked in close coordination with Wystrach to come up with a bespoke tank system and first-class solutions for complex elements, such as the connection between the tank and vehicle,” Wider explains. The installed system comprises five 350-liter tanks, providing capacity for about 40 kilograms of hydrogen at a pressure rating of 350 bar. “Our system operates at a supply pressure of 9 bar and features various safety elements and sensors,” says Robert Stockmann, technical product designer and project lead at Wystrach.

The sharing of experience and a partnership of equals are hallmarks of the Hylix-B project. In fact, the Reallabor project hub is designed to facilitate close collaboration among developers of the individual components and the core team. Led by Prof. Ralf Wörner, a team at Esslingen University of Applied Sciences is managing the project, which aims to research the practicality, economic viability, and social acceptance of using fuel-cell technology in trucks. Funding for the Hylix-B project is provided by the Ministry of the Environment, Climate Protection, and the Energy Sector Baden-Württemberg.

Range of 400 kilometers

“Our prototype will have a range of about 400 kilometers and will be more cost-effective to operate than existing zero-emissions alternatives,” Wider says. “Collaborating so intensively with our partners means we know the components and their optimization potential inside out – and naturally we’ll apply those insights as we continue to develop the technology.”