Thermal Management in FCEVs (Fuel Cell EVs)

Currently, all the spotlight in the dialogue about alternative propulsion is on BEVs and full HEVs, though FCEVs are now receiving strategic backing from some OEMs and countries, who do not want to put all their eggs into one basket, especially considering the undefined technology scenario. IHS Markit forecasts indicate that the demand for FCEVs will remain modest, thus limiting the demand for thermal management systems from the segment. Scope for commonization, especially of EV thermal management components and systems, exists along with new opportunities for fuel cell thermal management components.

Gasoline and diesel internal combustion engines (ICE) have enjoyed a duopoly over the global automotive landscape for a greater part of the century due to the sheer convenience, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness of the design as a mass road transport solution. And due to the high stakes involved for all the players invested in the ecosystem, alternatives have remained on the fringes. The design blueprint of the ICE has been continuously updated – getting more powerful, cleaner and quieter; to stay in tune with regulatory, consumer and industry needs. This status quo is now in a state of flux – with a convergence of several factors and events, placing the automotive industry’s environmental footprint under the microscope.