Beginning in 2024, the company will integrate its batteries, battery software and auxiliary modules into the unnamed North American OEM’s electric vocational trucks.

Employing 250 skilled workers, the centrally located facility will support the efficient production and distribution of complete BEV heavy-duty trucks for the North American market.

The prototype is based on the Hino ‘XL’ 4x2 configuration, but fitted with a powertrain assembled by Hexagon Purus, including its proprietary battery systems, auxiliary modules, power modules, and control software.

Hexagon Purus says the 60,000-square-foot facility will have an annual production capacity exceeding 1,000 battery systems and will employ up to 150 engineers and assembly technicians.

The facility employs 150 staff and aims to produce up to 10,000 hydrogen Type 4 composite cylinders (per year) used by heavy-duty vehicles.

Following its acquisition of Graz, Austria-based cryogenic storage specialist Cryoshelter GmbH announced at ACT Expo in Long Beach, California, Truck & Bus Builder spoke to Hexagon Group to discuss its strategy for renewable fuels in the North American and European markets.

The zero-emission division of Hexagon Group, Hexagon Purus ASA, based in Oslo, Norway, has entered into an agreement to acquire 40% of Cryoshelter GmbH’s liquid hydrogen business, based in Graz, Austria.

Hexagon Purus ASA, based in Ålesund, Norway, has been selected to supply hydrogen tanks to New Flyer Industries, based in Winnipeg, Canada, for use in its Xcelsior CHARGE H2 fuel cell transit bus. The total value of the contract is estimated at around USD2 million.

The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus Council, including members such as NFI Group and Ballard Power Systems, aims to promote the development and uptake of fuel-cell electric buses in the USA.

The components manufacturer began production of the electric powertrain for Class 5-8 CVs in December 2021. It also announced supply agreements with Thomas Built Buses and Hexagon Purus.

Meritor is ramping up sales of its electric powertrain for the North American market - the company is currently working with nine OEM partners. Outside of North America, Meritor is collaborating with partners in Europe, South America, and India.