© Bosch

Bosch and Johnson Matthey (JM) have announced a long-term partnership to enhance the performance of hydrogen fuel cells, reinforcing their commitment to decarbonizing commercial transport. The collaboration focuses on catalyst coated membranes (CCMs), a critical component in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells that drive zero-emission vehicles.

Bosch, a key player in automotive power solutions, launched volume production of its 300kW fuel cell systems in 2023, targeting €5 billion ($5.18 billion) in hydrogen-related sales by 2030. The company has already supplied US-based Nikola for pilot deployment, and the integration of JM’s CCMs aims to further optimize performance and efficiency.

Balancing Investment and Commercial Viability

JM, renowned for its expertise in advanced metals chemistry, has faced investor scrutiny over its hydrogen spending. In response, it has strategically reduced its investment in hydrogen technologies, capping spending at £5 million ($6.2 million) from FY 2025/26. Rather than exiting the sector, JM is focusing on high-impact partnerships like this one to drive commercial adoption of its innovations.

By refining CCM technology, JM seeks to improve hydrogen fuel cell durability and cost-effectiveness. Bosch, with its large-scale manufacturing capabilities, will integrate these membranes into its modular fuel cell systems, primarily designed for commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses.

Fuel Cells for Heavy-Duty Transport

Hydrogen fuel cells are increasingly positioned as a viable alternative for medium- and heavy-duty transport, where battery-electric solutions face challenges related to weight and range. CCM advancements are crucial to fuel cell adoption, as they enhance efficiency, reduce platinum usage, and lower costs.

Beate Grota, Bosch Mobility’s Executive Vice President of Engineering Power Solutions, stated that Bosch’s fuel cell technology is “technologically ready” for large-scale deployment, with JM’s contribution expected to further improve performance.

Accelerating Hydrogen Deployment

This partnership signals growing momentum in the hydrogen economy. Bosch’s multi-billion-dollar commitment to hydrogen infrastructure, coupled with JM’s targeted innovation, could accelerate real-world deployment of fuel cell technology. If successful, the collaboration will help scale hydrogen solutions for commercial transport, moving the industry closer to widespread decarbonization.