H.C. Starck GmbH and Webasto Thermosysteme GmbH have signed an agreement to jointly develop solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stacks, focusing on the development of high-temperature SOFCs for automotive applications. The partners plan to establish a basis for later serial production. The SOFC stacks will be used in auxiliary power units (APUs) to generate electricity on board vehicles, independently from the main engine. APUs operate at high efficiency and provide continuous power even when the engine is turned off. Webasto has been developing an APU system for some years, while H.C. Starck and its InDEC subsidiary produce SOFC cells, components and materials.

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