cellcentric has introduced its BZA375 NextGen fuel cell system, a highly integrated hydrogen-based powertrain platform designed to meet the demanding performance, efficiency, and durability requirements of long-haul heavy-duty transportation. The system delivers up to 375 kW of continuous net electrical output, positioning it as a scalable zero-emission alternative to conventional diesel propulsion in commercial vehicle segments.
The BZA375 platform is based on a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell stack, where hydrogen and oxygen undergo an electrochemical reaction to generate electrical energy, with water vapor and heat as the only by-products. The system architecture has been optimized at both the stack and balance-of-plant levels to achieve significant gains in efficiency, integration, and power density. Compared to its predecessor, the BZA375 delivers approximately 40% higher power density, enabling a reduction in system footprint and weight while maintaining high output capability.
These performance improvements are driven by advancements in membrane electrode assembly (MEA) design, catalyst utilization, and gas diffusion layer optimization, enhancing electrochemical efficiency and reducing internal losses. In addition, refined air management and hydrogen recirculation subsystems ensure precise reactant control and stable operation across dynamic load conditions typical of heavy-duty duty cycles.
The system achieves up to 40% reduction in waste heat at 300 kW operation, significantly lowering cooling system requirements and improving overall system efficiency. This reduction in thermal load is critical for vehicle integration, where packaging constraints and thermal management are key design considerations. With a system weight of under 500 kg and a compact form factor, the BZA375 is designed for seamless integration into conventional truck architectures.
The system also demonstrates improved operational efficiency, with up to 20% lower hydrogen consumption, achieving fuel usage below 6 kg per 100 km, thereby supporting extended driving range and reduced operating costs. Designed for commercial deployment, the BZA375 targets a service life of approximately 25000 operating hours, aligning with the durability requirements of heavy-duty transport applications.
As part of an electrified drivetrain, the fuel cell system supplies DC power to downstream power electronics, including DC-DC converters and traction inverters, which regulate and convert energy for electric motor operation. This highlights the role of the BZA375 within the broader electrification ecosystem, particularly for applications where battery-electric solutions face limitations in energy density and payload constraints.
cellcentric emphasizes system-level co-optimization, integrating semiconductor technologies, thermal design, and packaging to minimize losses and enhance reliability. The platform is also designed with scalability and manufacturability in mind, supporting the transition toward industrial-scale production.
With hydrogen infrastructure development gaining momentum, the BZA375 system is positioned to enable zero-emission, long-range mobility, particularly in heavy-duty logistics where high energy throughput and fast refueling are essential.
Click here to learn more about the role of hydrogen fuel in sustainable mobility.
About cellcentric
cellcentric is a leading developer and manufacturer of fuel cell systems for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Established as a joint venture between Daimler Truck AG and Volvo Group, the company combines deep expertise in fuel cell technology, system integration, and industrialization. With scalable hydrogen solutions, cellcentric is advancing climate-neutral propulsion systems for the global transportation sector.
