Technology Development
CTE has helped hundreds of US companies move cutting-edge technologies into the global marketplace. We assemble and manage research and demonstration projects to showcase breakthrough zero-emission technologies and the companies developing them.
Our Approach
CTE’s Technology Development approach brings technology teams together to develop clean vehicle prototypes. We marry these technology teams with fleet operators who are willing to test the vehicles in the markets they are designed to serve.
CTE helps the teams locate funding sources and develop winning proposals, and then provides our unique, unbiased program management services to ensure zero-emission technologies meet the needs of the people we serve.
“UPS is proud to have a non-profit like CTE seek out and advance complex DOE projects that are improving the environment for the communities in which it serves.”
Technology Development Services
Technology Development Project Spotlight
Fuel Cell Electric Top Loader
A grant awarded to the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in 2018 culminated in the successful development and demonstration of a first-of-its-kind fuel cell electric top loader — a breakthrough zero-emission solution for port operations. This innovation offered rapid refueling with hydrogen, taking only 15 minutes to provide 8–10 hours of continuous, emission-free operation.
The Hyster® top-pick container handler, powered by two Nuvera E-45 fuel cell engines, was demonstrated by Fenix Marine Services at the Port of Los Angeles (POLA) in Long Beach, California. The project also integrated cutting-edge wireless charging technology from WAVE and mobile hydrogen fueling from Air Products.
This transformative project delivered immediate environmental benefits, with annual reductions of approximately 127 tons of CO2 and 0.357 tons of Criteria Pollution. It also represents a significant milestone toward achieving California's ambitious air quality and climate goals.
CTE's leadership in guiding this collaborative effort highlights the critical role of demonstration projects in advancing early-stage technologies to market readiness. The initiative not only refined the technology but also provided valuable insights into addressing adoption challenges. CTE continues to champion public support for such endeavors, recognizing their potential to drive innovation, optimize resources, and maximize societal benefits in the transition to a zero-emission future.
