Global carbon reduction company First Mode has ordered 60 hydrogen fuel cell modules – totaling 6 megawatts – from Ballard Power Systems to power hybrid hydrogen and battery ultra-class mining haul trucks.
Delivery is slated for 2024, and follows the order of 35 modules year-to-date in 2023. First Mode said it has begun integrating Ballard’s fuel cells from the previously announced orders and will continue to bring an increasing number of zero-emission vehicles to the field with the latest purchase agreement.
”The combination of hydrogen fuel cell and battery technology has proven itself as a viable zero-emission alternative to diesel in mine haulage,” said First Mode CEO Julian Soles. “We are excited to continue our partnership with Ballard to help our customers achieve their emission targets without sacrificing performance.”
First Mode is working to scale production for the next generation of its nuGen solution, including fuel cell and battery powerplant and related infrastructure. The company will demonstrate the next several engines at its Proving Grounds in Centralia, Wash., starting in 2024.
Sources: Ballard and First Mode