#USA #Brussels #Fuel Cell #Ballard #FCmove

Ballard Power Systems to Unveil FCmove®-SC Fuel Cell Module

Ballard Power Systems (NASDAQ: BLDP; TSX: BLDP) is preparing to present its latest fuel cell module, the FCmove®-SC, at Busworld, scheduled in Brussels from October 4 to 9, 2025. This next-generation fuel cell is designed specifically for urban public transportation, leveraging the established FCmove platform from Ballard to provide superior sustained power output, simpler vehicle integration, and a reduced lifecycle cost, positioning the module on the path to diesel parity.

Advancements in Fuel Cell Technology

KEvin Colbow, Ballard's senior vice president and chief technology officer, emphasized that the FCmove®-SC represents a significant step forward in addressing the industry's challenge of closing the ownership cost gap with traditional diesel systems. Not only does this advanced design simplify integration for bus manufacturers, but it also enhances the overall cost-effectiveness and performance for public transport operators.

Key Enhancements

The FCmove®-SC module boasts several impressive upgrades:

• - 30% increase in system power at the end of its lifecycle, along with improved durability and performance at elevated temperatures and during cold starts.
• - 25% increase in volumetric power density due to integrated DC/DC encapsulation.
• - Maximum radiator outlet temperature raised by 25% (from 60°C to 75°C), facilitating easier thermal management.
• - A 40% reduction in the total number of components.

These enhancements collectively aim for a peak power capacity of at least 75 kW, optimized for continuous operation and achieving greater thermal margins for improved efficiency. This results in lower cooling requirements and more recoverable waste heat available for cabin heating, directly contributing to reduced operational costs and allowing for a competitive total cost of ownership compared to diesel systems.

Streamlined Integration Process

One of the standout features of the FCmove®-SC is its simplified integration process. The internalization of the DC/DC converter and power controller consolidates functionalities into a more compact and maintainable package. This results in fewer external interfaces and routable components, streamlining the drivetrain integration and lowering diagnostic and preventive maintenance demands.

Intelligent Services and Improved Safety

Additionally, Ballard is enhancing its fleet services to incorporate the FCmove®-SC module with predictive maintenance and analytics capabilities. Utilizing onboard communications and the FCServiceCloud Customer Insight portal will enable proactive maintenance workflows to help operators maximize uptime while minimizing lifecycle support costs.

Safety features are a top priority in the FCmove®-SC’s architecture. A newly designed PEM stack compartment geometry mitigates hydrogen-related risks, addressing safety concerns while relying less on conventional active safety features like sensors and software controls.

Proven Performance in the Field

The introduction of the FCmove®-SC is a culmination of Ballard's extensive field experience, having deployed over 850 vehicles across European cities. The existing FCmove®-HD module has successfully operated almost 100 million kilometers, using this operational data as a foundation to refine the design, architecture, and component subsystems of the FCmove®-SC, ultimately leading to a lower total cost of ownership for transport operators.

David Mucciacciaro, Ballard's senior vice president and commercial director, stated, “Our goal is to implement practical and measurable measures that bring fuel cell buses closer to parity with diesel. Our experience in the bus segment allows us to provide a solution that eases vehicle integration and lowers operational and maintenance costs, supported by services that keep fleets reliably operational.”

Ballard will showcase the FCmove®-SC and other transportation solutions at Hall 9, booth 579 during Busworld in Brussels, with demonstrations available by invitation. Interested operators and OEMs looking to schedule an appointment should reach out to the Ballard marketing team.

About Ballard Power Systems

Ballard Power Systems is devoted to providing fuel cell power for a sustainable planet. Its zero-emission PEM fuel cells enable the electrification of mobility solutions, including buses, commercial trucks, trains, marine vessels, and stationary power applications. To learn more about Ballard, visit www.ballard.com.

This announcement contains forward-looking statements regarding performance, cost, service capacity, and other anticipated benefits for customers using Ballard’s products and services. These forward-looking statements reflect Ballard's current expectations, and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ significantly from those anticipated.