Hydrogen powered vehicles aren’t exactly something completely new. Toyota has their Mirai and several other car makers have been toying with the technology. Albeit not just in full-scale production. If you take that technology and implement it in another application, the results might just be enough to justify that hydrogen fuel cells may be the way forward.
In the case of Amazon, they have reached an agreement with Plug Power Inc to purchase fuel cells and hydrogen technology in the sum of around $70million for this year. Amazon will use them in their fulfilment centres which are currently run by battery-powered forklifts.
One of the pain points of battery technology is the need to have a downtime to recharge the batteries. Having the ability to quickly swap energy packs in the form of fuel cells would ensure that these forklifts can operate to its fullest capacity around the clock.
“This agreement is a tremendous opportunity for Plug Power to further innovate and grow while helping to support the work Amazon does to pick, pack and ship customer orders,” said Andy Marsh, CEO of Plug Power. “Our hydrogen fuel cell technology, comprehensive service network, and commitment to providing cost-savings for customers has enabled Plug Power to become a trusted partner to many in the industry and we are excited to begin working with Amazon.”
Amazon will begin powering its industrial equipment such as forklifts using the Plug Power GenKey technology which will enable faster charging times, reduced costs, and support energy-efficiency in Amazon’s fulfilment operations in 11 warehouses.
Amazon themselves have also acquired the right to buy a stake in the fuel cell maker.
