VANCOUVER, B.C. – Loop Energy introduced a new range-extender (REX) power module for heavy-duty electric transport vehicles, which will begin in-service operation in 2017.

Loop says the new module’s unique fuel cell design substantially improves performance, durability and cost, and that fuel cell range extenders are critical to zero-emission trucks and buses as they extend the range of battery-electric systems using on-board hydrogen fuel.

“This is a defining moment for Loop as we advance the transit and trucking sectors forward in terms of their ability to meet performance, cost and large-scale carbon reduction targets,” said Ben Nyland, president and CEO of Loop Energy. “We’ve found that our technology is a perfect fit for powering heavy-duty transit buses and Class 6 to 8 trucks with zero emissions.”

Loop says its eFlow design produces greater power density than industry-standard fuel cells by optimizing air flow inside the cells.

The Loop 56kW fuel cell power module offers power density of 213 W/L to boost the range of battery electric vehicles by more than three times.

“Loop’s range extender system has unlocked the cost, power, efficiency and durability parameters customers require for their heavy-duty electric powertrain systems,” said Rob Wingrove, director of product development for Loop Energy. “We can reduce the size of the battery pack and the fuel cell, thereby closing the economic gap with fossil-fuel powertrains.”