Ballard Power Systems (NASDAQ: BLDP; TSX: BLDP) will debut its latest transit fuel cell module, the FCmove®-SC, at Busworld in Brussels from October 4–9, 2025. Purpose-built for city transit operations, the FCmove-SC advances Ballard’s market-leading FCmove family by delivering higher sustained power, easier vehicle integration, improved reliability in service, and lower lifecycle costs—all key milestones in the company’s roadmap toward achieving cost parity with diesel systems.
The FCmove-SC introduces significant enhancements designed to meet the needs of bus manufacturers and fleet operators. With a 30% increase in system power at end-of-life, improved durability, and higher power density, the module sets a new benchmark in performance. It also offers a 25% gain in volumetric power density through integrated DC/DC packaging, a 25% increase in maximum radiator outlet temperature from 60°C to 75°C to simplify thermal management, and a 40% reduction in total part count, resulting in lower complexity and easier servicing.
Optimized for a peak output of at least 75 kW, the module is engineered for sustained in-service performance, smaller cooling requirements, and enhanced waste heat recovery for cabin heating. These capabilities contribute to reduced operating costs and a competitive total cost of ownership compared to legacy diesel platforms. With an expected service life of approximately 25,000 operating hours under standard transit duty, the FCmove-SC ensures long-term dependability for fleet operators.
Integration has also been simplified. By incorporating the DC/DC converter and power controller within the system, the FCmove-SC reduces external interfaces and routable parts, cutting down on diagnostics and preventive maintenance while streamlining powertrain installation.
The new module also reflects Ballard’s emphasis on intelligent fleet support. Enhanced onboard communications integrate seamlessly with Ballard’s FCServiceCloud Customer Insight portal, enabling predictive and preventive maintenance workflows that maximize uptime and minimize lifecycle support costs.
Safety remains central to the design. The PEM stack enclosure features a new internal geometry that passively mitigates hydrogen-related risks, reducing reliance on traditional active safety measures such as sensors and software systems.
The FCmove-SC builds on Ballard’s proven record in the field. With more than 850 fuel-cell-powered buses operating across Europe and nearly 100 million service kilometers accumulated by the FCmove®-HD platform, Ballard has unmatched operational experience in the sector. These insights have directly shaped the design and architecture of the FCmove-SC, ensuring lower total cost of ownership and greater confidence for transit operators.
“The FCmove-SC is the latest product on Ballard’s new core platform, anchoring broader advances that directly address the industry’s biggest challenge: cost of ownership parity with diesel,” said Kevin Colbow, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Ballard. “This design simplifies integration for bus manufacturers and delivers long-term performance improvements for fleet operators.”
David Mucciacciaro, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, added: “We’re leveraging our extensive operational experience and customer partnerships to deliver a solution that lowers operating costs, reduces maintenance complexity, and keeps buses reliably on the road.”
Ballard will showcase the FCmove-SC alongside its broader portfolio of transit solutions at Busworld 2025, Hall 9, Stand 579, at the Brussels Expo.
