Picture: JBT AeroTech's existing electric AmpCart
The hydrogen fuel cell-powered mobile battery charger will be ready for production in early 2024 and will enter service at the end of that year.
Universal Hydrogen and JBT AeroTech are developing the product in response to the industry's demand to meet sustainability targets. Over 130 airports have already made commitments to be net zero by 2030.
Universal will provide hydrogen fuel services to H2AmpCart customers at airports globally with no additional on-airport infrastructure needed.
The first demonstrator unit with Ballard’s FCmove-HD+ hydrogen fuel cell will be ready by the end of 2023.
The H2AmpCart addresses the challenges of electrification, which include investing in charging stations, limited grid capacity and the lack of renewable grid options, seamlessly integrating into existing airport operations for an immediate and cost-effective transition to net zero.
JBT AeroTech will be responsible for the production of the fuel cell charger, airport and aircraft compatibility, and sales and support leveraging its extensive network as a leading GSE OEM while Universal Hydrogen brings its modular hydrogen delivery system, initially conceived for hydrogen aircraft, but now applicable to ground equipment.
"Our modular hydrogen fuelling solution, requiring no new hydrogen infrastructure to be built, will ensure that the H2AmpCart is a turnkey electric GSE charging solution for airlines and airports that cannot afford to wait years or have the investment capability for clean electric charging infrastructure to de deployed," said Arnaud Namer, Chief Operating Officer of Universal Hydrogen.
“Combined with Universal Hydrogen’s conversion kit and hydrogen fuel services offering for regional airplanes, this will make the regional aviation ecosystem the most climate-friendly mode of powered transport on Earth.”
“For over a decade, JBT AeroTech has been the partner of choice for airports and airlines seeking to be at the forefront of sustainable ground support solutions. With this partnership, we’re excited to quickly advance our customers’ electrification journeys with the power of hydrogen,” said Chuck Durst, President of GSE at JBT AeroTech.
“Collaborating with Universal Hydrogen to rapidly bring this modular hydrogen fuel-cell powered charger to market enables us to help our customers accelerate their conversion to electric power GSE.”
