The first prototype vehicles are expected to hit the roads in 2023, if not before, with the start of series production scheduled shortly afterwards.

The ‘long term’ agreement follows both firms embarking on the ‘HyFleet’ research project last year, to develop a fuel cell drive for long-distance bus platforms.

While the initial focus is on truck and bus applications, it could be extended to rail, construction and agricultural vehicles and marine applications – possibly powering passenger ships on the open seas.

Dr. Mohsen Sohi, CEO of the Freudenberg Group, said it is investing heavily in the mobility of the future, specifically battery, hydrogen and fuel cell technology, and the agreement combines both firms’ experience and technology know-how.

Wilhelm Rehm, ZF Board Member with responsibility for Commercial Vehicle Solutions, Industrial Technology and Materials Management, said fuel cell technology will be a ‘game changer’.

“Together with Freudenberg, we can offer a ‘one stop shop’ solution enabling manufacturers to quickly bring e-mobility solutions to market and support the industry’s transformation to a more sustainable future.”

While passenger cars run for about 8,000 hours during their lifetimes, trucks spend at least 35,000 hours on the road.

Dr. Max Kley, CEO of Freudenberg e-Power Systems, said, “Our goal is to design the fuel cell battery drive system for a long service life and real-world heavy-duty profiles.”