The Port of Valencia, Spain, has received its first hydrogen- powered terminal tractor.
The 4x4 unit is the first of its kind in the world and is being developed within the framework of the European H2PORTS project. This unit has a fuel cell/ battery hybrid powertrain and a storage system made of four Type 3 cylinders, guaranteeing continuous operations of at least six hours before refuelling.
The electric motor is powered by a high-performance LiFePO4 battery, with 25 kWh energy capacity, and a 70 kW Ballard fuel cell module. In particular, the electric motor can receive power for traction from the fuel cell and battery simultaneously or charge the battery during braking or decelerations. The fuel cell is also able to power both the electric motor and the battery, if needed.
This hybrid powertrain is able to successfully take advantage of a significant share of kinetic energy recovery, of up to 25 per cent, thereby making it a much more efficient unit to use for the intensive activities of roll-on/roll-off operations.
