Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Protonex, Cummins Onan in fuel cell deal for RVs

By Jackie Noblett

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Protonex Technology Corp. announced Tuesday it is working with Cummins Onan to develop fuel-cell power systems for recreational vehicles.

The agreement calls for Southborough-based Protonex (LON: PTX), a developer of fuel cells for portable power, to jointly test its M250-B fuel cell power system with recreational vehicles made by Cummins Onan, a division of Columbus, Ind.-based engine maker Cummins Inc. Cummins will offer Protonex marketing assistance at trade shows, and is working to provide become certified installers of Protonex fuel cells for RVs.

The RV fuel cell uses methanol fuel to generate energy and store power like a battery. It works in tandem with other vehicle components, such as batteries, inverters, charging infrastructure and even solar panels.

The companies plan to showcase the new product at the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Show this week.