Continental has developed an advanced cooling line for hydrogen powertrains in commercial vehicles, significantly minimizing ion penetration into the media circuit. Made from a specially formulated synthetic rubber blend, the line is designed to resist ion leaching, thereby reducing ion transfer within the cooling system of hydrogen drive systems. Experts from ContiTech, a division of Continental, have addressed one of the key challenges in industrializing this emerging alternative propulsion technology. This innovation enhances the longevity of vehicle components, contributing to the efficiency and durability of hydrogen-powered systems.
Continental has developed a high-performance EPDM synthetic rubber material to reduce ion leaching in hydrogen powertrain cooling systems. Ion contamination can degrade materials, lower efficiency, and increase the risk of short circuits or leakage currents in fuel cells, potentially damaging the proton exchange membrane (PEM). By using a specially formulated EPDM rubber, Continental enhances resistance to ion leaching, improving the durability and reliability of hydrogen drive systems in commercial vehicles.
Continental has developed a high-density hydrogen line with a thermoplastic barrier to support the transition from oil and gas. While hydrogen is gaining traction among commercial vehicle manufacturers, engineers still face significant challenges compared to battery-powered systems.
The low density and high volatility of hydrogen pose significant challenges for developers. Harald Kreidner, Head of R&D at ContiTech’s OESL business area, highlights key requirements such as permeation resistance, anti-static properties, and high pressure tolerance. Traditional lines struggle to contain hydrogen due to its small molecular size. To address this, Continental has developed a hose with a thermoplastic barrier layer, effectively preventing hydrogen leakage. This innovation enhances vehicle safety by minimizing the risk of flammable hydrogen-air mixtures and improves fuel-cell efficiency by reducing hydrogen loss, ultimately extending vehicle range.
Continental’s Original Equipment Solutions (OESL) business area brings decades of expertise as a system partner for media circuits and engine mounts in combustion technology. “Our customers benefit immensely from our experience in co-developing lines, splices, and mounting components for hydrogen and battery drive systems in commercial vehicles,” explains Mark Klein-Hietpas, Director of CV Sales at OESL.
By leveraging its deep material and engineering expertise, Continental has successfully developed innovative material compounds that meet the complex and sometimes conflicting demands of hydrogen and battery circuits—just as it has done in combustion technology. The company’s research and development efforts bridge the gap between existing and emerging powertrain technologies, ensuring seamless adaptation.
For instance, achieving both high imperviousness and flexibility in vehicle lines requires a delicate balance of material science and industrial application. To strengthen its role as a transformation and development partner, Continental has consolidated its vehicle media circuit expertise under OESL, a newly established business area within ContiTech. To enhance agility and autonomy, this unit is currently being made independent, allowing it to provide specialized support for vehicle manufacturers navigating the rapid evolution of powertrain technology.
 business area is consolidating media circuit expertise, providing OEMs with specialized support in developing next-generation hydrogen and alternative drive systems.){kind=link}