A new project named the Hydrocycle has recently been launched by a German-Czech consortium. The main aim of this project is to develop a motorcycle that runs on hydrogen fuel cells, also known as H2. The consortium has set a timeline for themselves, aiming to build a test hydrogen motorcycle by the end of 2025. This motorcycle is not just any motorcycle, they aspire for it to meet the European homologation standards and certification regulations.
The overarching goal of the Hydrocycle project, as stated by the Fraunhofer IWU in Chemnitz, a key participant in the project, is for the hydrogen motorcycle to serve as an “inspiration for the mobility of the future”. It is believed that this innovative form of transportation could potentially have a significant impact on delivery services in urban centers, as well as parcel delivery companies, making operations more eco-friendly and efficient.
In terms of the division of responsibilities within the consortium, the Saxon company WataS Warmetauscher Sachsen GmbH has been entrusted with the task of developing a new generation of fuel cell stacks. These stacks will serve as the foundation for the powertrain of the hydrogen motorcycle. Providing support in the development of new production technologies and the enhancement of the functionality stacks, the Fraunhofer IWU plays a crucial role. Their ‘reference factory.H2’ will be instrumental in this aspect of the project.
The Chemnitz-based Fraunhofer Research Institute, in addition to supporting the project, is also responsible for system sizing and packaging. They will ensure a seamless interface between the development of the vehicle and the fuel cell system, to facilitate the smooth progression of the project and the efficient realization of the hydrogen motorcycle.
