Alternative drive concepts & modular system solutions for future-oriented vehicle fleets
The mobility transition towards zero-emission drive systems is one of the key challenges of our time to combat climate change and secure a sustainable future. Traditional fossil drive systems are increasingly under pressure due to their negative environmental impact and are being replaced by more environmentally friendly alternatives. Battery electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, in particular, are playing a key role in this development. Both technologies offer various advantages that can be optimally utilized in different applications.
The transition to emission-free mobility represents one of the greatest challenges and opportunities of our time. Hexagon Purus is making a significant contribution to addressing this challenge by offering advanced battery systems and hydrogen solutions that create a flexible and scalable infrastructure for sustainable transportation. Of particular importance is the development of mobile hydrogen refueling stations, which accelerate the expansion of the hydrogen infrastructure and enable fast, location-independent vehicle refueling. In this way, Hexagon Purus is making a decisive contribution to creating sustainable, emission-free mobility.
Why fossil fuels have no long-term future
In an increasingly environmentally conscious society, traditional drive types such as petrol and diesel engines face increasing pressure. Despite their widespread use and stable infrastructure, these fossil fuels are not a long-term sustainable solution due to their climate-damaging emissions and high maintenance costs. The global focus on CO₂ reduction and sustainable mobility is driving the gradual replacement of these drive types with more environmentally friendly alternatives.
Purely battery electric vehicles are a central building block of sustainable mobility. They offer emission-free operation, low noise emissions, and low operating costs. Challenges such as inadequate charging infrastructure and limited range remain, especially for users undertaking long journeys or in regions with a weak fast-charging infrastructure. However, the steady expansion of the charging infrastructure is making electric drives increasingly suitable for everyday use.
Fuel cell technology, using hydrogen to generate electricity, is seen as a promising solution for long-distance journeys, heavy goods vehicles, and public transport. It combines the advantages of electric drives with the range and short refueling times of conventional fuels. Its emission-free operation, producing only water as a byproduct, makes it a particularly environmentally friendly alternative.
Electric vehicles in comparison - battery vs. hydrogen drive
| Electric drive (BEV) | Hydrogen drive (FCEV) | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy source | Electricity (mostly from the grid, increasingly from renewable sources) | Hydrogen (for on-board power generation, ideally from green hydrogen) |
| CO₂ emissions (in operation) | None | None |
| Range | 300-600 km (depending on model) | 500-700 km (depending on tank size) |
| Refueling/charging time | Long (20 minutes to several hours, depending on charging infrastructure) | Very short (approx. 3-10 minutes at hydrogen filling stations) |
| Infrastructure | Broad network of charging stations, further expanded | Limited infrastructure, but growing |
| Energy efficiency | Very high (approx. 85-90% of energy is used) | Medium (approx. 40-60% of energy efficiency through conversion) |
| Noise emissions | Very low | Very low |
| Total carbon footprint | Good - depending on electricity mix | Very good - especially with green hydrogen |
| Suitability for | City traffic, short distances, increasingly also long distances | Long distances, heavy goods transport, public transport, fleet operation |
Hexagon Purus battery systems – compact power for emission-free mobility
Hexagon Purus offers state-of-the-art battery systems with outstanding energy density, specifically designed for medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Our battery packs feature industry-leading gravimetric and volumetric energy density, offering an impressive range with low weight.
A particular highlight is the innovative “wrap-around design” where the battery system encloses the chassis frame as a single unit. This design maximizes available space while also simplifying maintenance. The system is complemented by the Accessory Module and the Power Module, together offering the most compact and efficient platform for commercial e-vehicles.
All global advantages of hydrogen drives
- Climate neutrality with green hydrogen:
Zero CO₂ emissions during operation.
Near climate neutrality when produced using green electricity (electrolysis). - Independence from fossil fuels:
Production from renewable energy sources available locally.
Reduced reliance on oil and gas imports. - Long range & short refueling time:
Ideal for long-distance travel, heavy goods transport, trains, and aviation.
Refueling in just a few minutes – similar to diesel. - High energy density with low weight:
Advantage over batteries, especially in commercial vehicles and aircraft.
- Storage & buffering of renewable energies:
Potential for storing surplus green electricity.
Supports grid stability and addresses seasonal energy availability. - No local pollutant emissions:
Zero emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter.
Low noise emissions – beneficial for the environment and health. - Modularity & scalability:
Flexible applications in mobility, industry, and energy supply.
Integration possible with existing systems – cross-sectoral use.
Combined use of battery and fuel cell vehicles
More and more companies and fleet operators are adopting a technology-neutral approach to future-proof and make their vehicle fleets climate-friendly. Instead of limiting themselves to a single drive type, companies and fleet operators are strategically combining battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). This allows optimal exploitation of each technology's strengths: BEVs excel in urban areas and shorter distances due to energy efficiency and low operating costs, while FCEVs shine over long distances, under heavy loads, or in continuous use where range and fast refueling are critical.
Hexagon Purus offers the ideal solution for this flexible technology mix: modular and scalable battery, storage, and hydrogen systems enable electrification as needed – whether purely battery-electric, hydrogen-powered, or in hybrid configurations. This system diversity forms the foundation for an emission-free, high-performance, and future-oriented fleet that is both ecologically sound and sets standards in maintenance costs and energy efficiency.
Mobile hydrogen filling stations as a building block for holistic H₂ solutions
One of the biggest challenges for the widespread use of hydrogen-powered vehicles is the slow expansion of stationary refueling infrastructure. Mobile hydrogen refueling stations are key to quickly and flexibly advancing emission-free mobility. They provide immediate supply security where fixed H₂ refueling stations are lacking, thus paving the way for real-world fuel cell vehicle operation.
Hexagon Purus complements its comprehensive portfolio of emission-free drive solutions – from high-pressure hydrogen storage systems to fuel cell systems and battery electric platforms – with a practical refueling solution: the mobile “Plug & Play” refueling station. This unit is operational within a day, works autonomously, and enables reliable on-site refueling of trucks, buses, off-road vehicles, or trains. Safety and availability are ensured through 24/7 remote monitoring.
The modular container solutions with optional pre-cooling enable fast, efficient, and location-independent refueling – for example, in depots, on construction sites, in logistics centers, or at temporary locations. Therefore, the mobile refueling solution seamlessly integrates with Hexagon Purus's scalable hydrogen systems, accelerating the transition to decarbonized mobility across all sectors.
Our solutions
Infrastructure
Infrastructure
Developing a robust hydrogen infrastructure is the key to successfully establishing hydrogen as the sustainable energy carrier of the future. Let's shape the hydrogen economy together – contact us and find out more about our innovative solutions!
E-Mail →Hexagon Purus ASA
Haakon VII's gate 2
0161 Oslo
Norway