BAE, Plug Power collaborate on hydrogen buses

BAE Systems, Inc., a supplier of electric propulsion solutions, announced a collaboration with Plug Power, a supplier of hydrogen fuel cells and fueling systems, to develop hydrogen-based electric propulsion systems for transit bus fleets.

BAE Systems and Plug Power are collaborating to supply fuel cell electric propulsion systems for transit bus fleets.

The companies will work together to offer transit operators in North America an all-inclusive, scalable system to reach zero emissions, including all required site, vehicle, and service solutions. As part of the collaboration, BAE Systems will integrate Plug Power’s fuel cells into its electric drive systems for buses.

This strategic partnership is intended to leverage both companies’ knowledge and experience in electrification. BAE Systems has more than two decades of expertise developing and integrating electric propulsion systems, including fuel cell technology.

“Our collaboration with Plug Power harnesses the strengths of two industry-leading companies with proven track records in zero emission mobility,” said Steve Trichka, vice president and general manager of Power & Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems. “BAE Systems has extensive experience in providing zero emission technology, and now with Plug Power’s expertise in fuel cell applications, our strategic partnership can provide transit systems with sustainable transportation solutions.”

“We’re excited to work with BAE Systems, a pioneer in clean energy solutions for sustainable transportation, to bring the benefits of green hydrogen to transit systems in North America,” said Plug Power CEO Andy Marsh. “This strategic partnership will play an instrumental role in advancing our on-road applications strategy and delivering new growth opportunities that help meet our year-end 2025 goals, including annual production of 500 tons of green hydrogen daily.”

BAE Systems said it first integrated fuel cells into buses in 1998. The Series-H hydrogen fuel cell electric system has powered buses around the world for 25 years, the company said. BAE Systems said it has all-electric systems on buses in service throughout North America and Europe, and more than 13,000 propulsion systems in service on transit buses worldwide.

Plug Power supplies its modular ProGen fuel cells from 30 to 125 kW and can also provide turnkey systems.