German automotive auto parts manufacturer, ElringKlinger has announced that at this year's International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt it will display its commitment to shaping the future of the automobile industry as the sector transitions toward electromobility.

In this context, the company is taking an approach that embraces all forms of technology, and will be presenting not only a PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) fuel cell stack with exceptional performance characteristics but also solutions centred around electric drivetrains as well as systems and components from the field of battery technology.

A key focus for the show will be on a low-temperature fuel cell stack - NM12 - featuring metallic bipolar sheets with an extremely high power density and an electrical output of up to 135 kWel for applications in the automobile and commercial vehicle sector. The stack runs in hydrogen-air mode and is liquid-cooled.

Dr. Stefan Wolf, CEO, ElringKlinger, said: "In launching the new and larger 'NM12' platform, ElringKlinger has extended the scope of PEM stacks for applications requiring a high power density, thus meeting the requirements of current automotive systems. With the levels achieved, such as power density, we are able to perform significantly better compared to stacks engineered by competing companies. This is a milestone for ElringKlinger and fuel cell technology as a whole."

In addition, the company says its all-embracing system expertise – covering everything from fuel cells and batteries through to complete electric drive units (EDUs) – will be on display at the company's exhibition booth. It will also showcase its know-how in this field with the aid of a vehicle demonstrator.

ElringKlinger also develops and produces fuel cell systems on the basis of proprietary PEM stack technology. "Our fuel cell system brings together stack, hydrogen and air supply, cooling, and power electronics as well as a fuel cell control Unit (FCCU) ) in a self-controlled, protected, and standardised package," added Dr. Wolf.

Materials expertise for battery technology
In 2018, ElringKlinger announced it had secured a high-revenue contract for the development and production of complete battery systems to be used in an all-electric solar vehicle.

n collaboration with hofer powertrain, ElringKlinger develops and produces complete electric drive units (EDUs). Furthermore, the company says it offers efficient, customised solutions for various sealing requirements as well as components within the EDU.

Aspects such as lightweight construction and effective shielding also play an important role in future drive technologies. At the IAA, ElringKlinger will display an innovative underbody protection system made of a thermoplastic sandwich material based on glass fibres. This ensures outstanding load impact behaviour as well as efficient shielding and insulation for the battery systems of electric vehicles.

The range showcased will be complemented by products from the company's long-standing product portfolio, such as thermal and acoustic shielding systems as well as cylinder-head and specialty gaskets.