Published on: 2026-09-29
Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –
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At SPbGASU, a development is underway for an electric-powered vehicle with a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system. The research is aimed at finding solutions for freight transport that will reduce environmental impact and increase the energy efficiency of vehicles.
The research work is led by Associate Professor, Candidate of Technical Sciences Sergey Vorobyov. Performer – graduate student of the Department of Technical Operation of Transport Vehicles Evgeny Trofimov. He is studying in the field 2.9.5 Operation of Motor Transport, is the author of more than 25 scientific publications, holder of six patents for inventions, and winner of competitions for modern technologies of alternative energy and innovative power plants in China in 2023.
The basis of the development is the use of hydrogen to generate electricity. In the fuel cell, an electrochemical reaction produces electricity, which is used to power the electric motor. As a result, water is directly formed during the operation of the system.
Oxygen delivery system
For freight transport, such technology is of special interest due to the possibility of combining electric traction with fast refueling and a large energy reserve. That is why researchers consider hydrogen fuel cells not as an alternative to batteries in all cases, but as another option for an electric powertrain.
“We consider hydrogen fuel cells not as a replacement for batteries, but as a complement to them – where greater range and quick refueling are needed. Our task is to create a working and reproducible domestic technology for freight transport,” notes Sergey Vorobyov.
The research begins with a digital model
Currently, a significant part of the work is carried out in the format of computer modeling. In the ENGEE environment, specialists create models of the automotive fuel cell system, study electrochemical processes, and calculate mass and energy balances.
Researchers need to determine how the powertrain should be designed to operate efficiently as part of a cargo truck. To this end, various layout options are being considered and prototypes of vehicle modifications are being developed.
Another important task is to assess the environmental impact of switching to hydrogen fuel. For this, an analytical model is being developed that will allow determining the change in environmental burden when using fuel cells in wheeled vehicles, taking into account operating conditions in large cities.
Thus, the research combines several areas at once — from studying the processes inside the fuel cell to designing the vehicle and assessing its operational characteristics.
From modeling to testing
In the future, the developers plan to move on to the next stages of work. In particular, models of fuel cell batteries for freight transport and systems for storing alternative fuels on board the vehicle will be created.
Special attention will be paid to the operation of hydrogen systems in cold climates. Researchers plan to develop a method for controlling fuel systems using materials with variable phase composition.
Based on the results of the work, it is also planned to develop scientific and methodological approaches to evaluating the operational characteristics of freight transport using alternative fuels and hybrid power systems.
The final stage should be operational testing of freight transport running on fuel cells. The results obtained can be used in the further design of trucks using alternative fuels, the development of hybrid power systems, and the creation of fuel storage systems.
The study continues the work direction of SPbGASU in the field of modern transport technologies and alternative energy, combining scientific modeling, engineering design, and the prospect of creating domestic solutions for freight transport.
The news is published based on the results of the St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering 2026 grant execution.
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