Watch CBS News

Ann Arbor Firm Gets Army Fuel Cell Contract

ANN ARBOR -- The AMI business unit of England's Ultra Electronics said Thursday it had secured an $870,000 contract to provide 30 of its solid oxide fuel cells to the U.S. Army's Rapid Equipping Force.

Soldiers in the field will use the Ultra Electronics AMI 300-watt fuel cells to recharge batteries and provide primary power to communications and information systems.

The first delivery by Ultra Electronics, AMI of five fuel cells to the U.S. Army was made this week.

"Ultra Electronics, AMI fuel cells are the ideal power source because they're lightweight, portable, and reliable," said Aaron Crumm, Ultra Electronics, AMI president. "The Rapid Equipping Force contract is unique in that it quickly puts technology in the hands of soldiers. Ultra Electronics, AMI has a long history of providing portable power to the military and it's that track record that makes our technology attractive for immediate field use."

Rapid Equipping Force selected Ultra Electronics, AMI, because its fuel cells solve a significant military challenge. Providing reliable power for multi-day missions, the 300-watt fuel cell is ideal for applications requiring more power or longer durations than batteries can support.

Compared to a generator or the number of batteries that would be required for a multi-day mission, the fuel cell, weighing just 32 pounds, is lightweight and portable.

The Ultra Electronics, AMI fuel cells were tested for altitude, vibration, shock, cold, heat, rain, dust and drops.  They are proven to perform in temperatures ranging from -20° Celsius (-4 Fahrenheit) to 50° C (122 Fahrenheit).

AMI offers 50- and 250-watt solid oxide fuel cells that are powered by globally available and energy dense propane, butane and LPG. Adaptive Materials' fuel cell system provides portable power to the United States Armed Forces as well as industries including leisure, remote monitoring, and medical devices. For more information, visit www.adaptivematerials.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.