WHITE PAPER
Optimized Fuel Cell Electric Powertrains for Trucks
Ballard and Forsee Power value proposition for truck applications, March 2025

Optimized Fuel Cell Electric Powertrains for Trucks
As heavy-duty transport accelerates toward zero-emission solutions, selecting the optimal powertrain configuration is becoming a decisive factor in vehicle performance, cost, and sustainability outcomes. For fuel cell electric trucks, the architecture and integration of fuel cell and battery systems are especially critical – these components account for up to 70–80% of the powertrain cost and approximately 30–40% of the total vehicle cost. System architecture is therefore essential to ensure efficiency, longevity, and economic viability.
In a new paper focused on optimized powertrains for decarbonized trucks, Ballard’s extensive expertise in the development and application of fuel cell technology is combined with Forsee Power’s capabilities in smart battery systems. The partnership leverages the strengths of both companies to deliver integrated hybrid energy systems - providing OEMs and fleet operators with a structured, duty-cycle-informed methodology for powertrain configuration.