#USA #Chicago #Ballard Power #Fuel Cell #Fleet360

Ballard Introduces Fleet360 for Next-Gen Fuel Cell Fleets

At the APTA TRANSform EXPO 2026, Ballard Power Systems unveiled its pioneering fuel cell lifecycle program, Fleet360. This groundbreaking initiative is tailored specifically for the North American market and aims to redefine how transit operators manage their fuel cell fleets.

Fleet360 provides an all-encompassing service package that combines performance guarantees, technical support, and maintenance planning. It is designed to give transit operators confidence in the performance of their fuel cells, ensuring they can effectively plan for maintenance and lifecycle costs. According to Ralph Robinett, Chief Operating Officer of Ballard, Fleet360 not only backs up technology with performance guarantees but also offers crucial infrastructure for maintenance teams. This enables customers to have a more transparent and manageable approach to their fuel cell budgets.

Key Features of Fleet360

The core of Fleet360's offering is FCpulse, an innovative digital platform that offers real-time insights into the health and performance of fuel cells. This tool helps maintenance teams proactively identify issues, prioritize repairs, and effectively allocate resources in the workshop. It allows for deeper technical investigations through its data visualization features, and offers quarterly performance reports that assist in lifecycle planning and service decisions.

The service includes the FCcare+ package, which guarantees the performance of fuel cell modules for up to 250,000 miles of operation. Operators can select from various service agreements, ensuring they receive a tailored solution that meets their specific needs. The Core+ refurbishment service and specialized training through the Ballard Academy bolster this commitment, empowering in-house teams with the skills to maintain fuel cells effectively.

Comprehensive Support System

Ballard's Remote Operations Centre in Vancouver plays a crucial role in delivering Fleet360's services. This facility coordinates diagnostics, triage, and engineering escalations, bolstered by a field service team equipped with a robust parts inventory located in Bend, Oregon. This ensures that support is readily available, enhancing the efficiency of operations for transit agencies.

Data-driven maintenance decisions are a pivotal aspect of Fleet360. Robinett emphasized that leveraging FCpulse insights to determine the next necessary action helps maintenance teams make informed, confident choices. The program is designed to integrate data insights with parts support and expertise, guiding operators in budgeting for the entire lifecycle of their fuel cell modules.

Extensive Experience and New Horizons

Ballard's strong foundation in fuel cell technology is reflected in its impressive operational history, with over 186 million miles traveled by its fuel cell systems and more than 3,000 fuel cell engines in active use. Currently, the company operates nearly 330 fuel cell buses across North America, predominantly in California and Nevada. This experience informs the development of Fleet360, fostering a complete service approach that supports customers from vehicle integration and deployment to reliable operation throughout the lifecycle.

Furthermore, just prior to the APTA EXPO, Ballard completed its acquisition of GeoPura, which enhances its capabilities by integrating hydrogen production, logistics, and refueling solutions into its service offerings. This acquisition enables Ballard to further expand its support for zero-emission fleets, catering to the growing demand for sustainable transit solutions and ensuring customers have comprehensive resources for their operational needs.

Meet Ballard at APTA EXPO 2026

Ballard Power Systems invites transit operators and manufacturers to visit its booth (462) at APTA EXPO 2026, which runs from October 5-7, to learn more about the Fleet360 program. The expert team will be on hand to discuss the myriad options available within the Fleet360 framework, ensuring stakeholders can select the best solutions for their operational requirements.

About Ballard Power Systems

Ballard Power Systems, traded on NASDAQ as BLDP and on TSX as BLDP, stands as a global leader in developing hydrogen energy solutions and providing integrated Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS). Along with its subsidiary GeoPura, Ballard delivers complete hydrogen ecosystem solutions that span production to zero-emission fuel cell engines. The company's commitment to innovative, sustainable solutions positions them at the forefront of the transition to zero-emission transit options worldwide. For more information, visit www.ballard.com.