Toyota Tsusho Signs Exclusive Marketing Agreement in Japan with SFC Energy, World No. 1 in Compact Fuel Cells
- Contributing to the transition to a low-carbon society through expansion of eco-friendly fuel cells -

  • Global Parts & Logistics

2020-11-12

Toyota Tsusho Corporation ("Toyota Tsusho") announces today that it signed an agreement in September 2020 with SFC Energy AG ("SFC") for exclusive marketing of compact fuel cells*1 in Japan. Toyota Tsusho aims to diversify customers of SFC's compact fuel cells, and work to strengthen relationship with a view to expanding sales in Asia in the future.

Fuel cells cause a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to continuously generate electricity without emitting nitrogen oxides (NOx) or sulfur oxides (SOx), and are consequently gaining attention as a substitute for diesel generators. Various types of fuel cells exist, with different applications and output capacities, and SFC holds the No. 1 global market share*2 for production and sales of compact fuel cells rated 500 W or lower. SFC also has cutting-edge technology and patents for direct methanol*3 fuel cells, and has sold over 45,000 units worldwide.

The fuel cells manufactured by SFC are easier to handle than hydrogen, have outstanding storage and transportability, and a large power storage capacity. Consequently, they enable continuous power supply for one month or more in areas that are off-grid.


Picture: SFC EFOY Pro 2400 Duo direct methanol fuel cell

Toyota Tsusho has been handling SFC fuel cells since 2015, and has sold over 400 units to date. Thanks to their ability to supply stable energy for long periods, the fuel cells are often used as a power supply for wind observation equipment (Doppler Lidar systems) used to survey wind conditions prior to construction of onshore and offshore wind power plants.

With the signing of the new exclusive marketing agreement, Toyota Tsusho aims to boost sales in Japan for diverse applications, including wireless telecommunications equipment in mountainous regions, centered on wind observation equipment, and portable back-up power supply in the event of disaster. In addition, it hopes to contribute to the transition to a low-carbon society through expansion of use of eco-friendly fuel cells.

SFC Energy AG

Company Name
SFC Energy AG
Location
Munich, Germany
Incorporation
February 2000
Representative
Dr. Peter Podesser, Chief Executive Officer and Board Chairman
Business Description
Fuel cell development and production


*1 Compact fuel cells are fuel cells with output capacities of 500 W or lower.
*2 Source:「The Fuel Cell Industry Review 2019(E4tech)」
*3 Direct methanol fuel cells draw out hydrogen by direct supply of methanol and oxygen, and the hydrogen produced reacts with a catalyst to emit electrons and generate electricity.

Fuel cell market segment(Business×output capacities)

Practical example of SFC fuel cell (fuel cell system for offshore wind observation)

 

For further information regarding Toyota Tsusho fuel cells, please refer to our fuel cell business website (https://ttc-fuelcell.com/sfc). ※Japanese and Chinese only

The information in this release is current as of the date of announcement.
Please note that information may change after the date of announcement. Thank you in advance for your understanding.