Rheinmetall secures a breakthrough deal for innovative heat pump solutions in hydrogen-powered trucks

The German automotive and arms manufacturer Rheinmetall's thriving thermal management division is expanding further, marking a significant milestone by introducing an inventive plug-and-play heat pump solution to be integrated into a hydrogen-powered truck for the first time.

The thermal module, already prevalent in battery-powered commercial vehicles, construction equipment, and marine vessels, has achieved a significant breakthrough. Rheinmetall has successfully advanced the integration of this innovative plug-and-play solution into a cutting-edge fuel cell-powered truck, marking a milestone in its adoption within a forward-looking sector. Notably, the order for this advancement comes from a new customer.

Delivered fully preassembled and filled with coolant, the heat pumps play a crucial role in optimising the drive system's efficiency and extending the vehicle's operational range. These developments create a solid foundation for enhancing the sustainability of long-distance transport.

Rheinmetall has achieved a significant breakthrough by expanding its heat pump technology applications, securing a foothold in the emerging hydrogen (H2) market. Alongside its endeavours in e-mobility, the company has secured its first customer in the H2 sector. The versatile system is adaptable to both new and existing vehicle platforms and can be tailored to meet specific customer requirements. Rheinmetall plans to extend its presence into various other market segments.

With impending mandatory EU climate goals for the truck sector, new models must emit 15 per cent less carbon dioxide by 2025 and at least 30 per cent less by 2030. Failure to meet these benchmarks may result in penalties. Additionally, the European truck industry is striving to eliminate the use of fossil fuels entirely by 2040. In pursuit of this objective, fuel cells and electromobility are poised to reduce carbon emissions significantly.

The increasing demands of modern fuel cell-powered vehicles on advanced thermal management systems have led to a notable surge in the number of components and connections within the coolant circuit. Rheinmetall addresses this challenge with its compact heat pump system, offering significant space savings during installation. Designed for both 400- and 800-volt applications, the system provides a nominal cooling output of up to 8 kW and a heat output of up to 11 kW.

Functioning as a crucial component of thermal management, the compact heat pump ensures precise regulation of the fuel cell's conditions while also managing climate control within the passenger compartment. Cooling and heating are facilitated through a connected coolant circuit. The optimized thermal management system, with its precise and intelligent control, enhances the economical and efficient aspects of H2 mobility and contributes to overall comfort. Additionally, it plays a vital role in extending components' service life and increasing the vehicles' operational range.