GCK Performance presents the e-Blast H2, an H2 fuel cell rally-raid prototype

• To mark the official start of the 15th edition of the Africa Eco Race, GCK is present in Monaco to present the e-Blast H2, a hybrid rally-raid prototype powered by both batteries and hydrogen.

• Following on from the first 100% electric e-Blast to be presented in 2021, this new version developed by GCK Performance, a subsidiary of the GCK Group, is equipped with an H2 fuel cell developed by its own teams in collaboration with the FEV company.

• With this innovative demonstrator, GCK confirms its technological and industrial ambitions in the development of carbon-free mobility solutions.

Monaco, December 30, 2023 – This Saturday, December 30, ahead of the official start of the 15th Africa Eco Race in Monaco, GCK was present in the Monegasque city alongside Adriana Karembeu, patron of the event, to present its brand-new rally-raid prototype, the e-Blast H2. This vehicle with its unusual characteristics is a project developed by GCK Performance, a Group subsidiary specializing in prototyping and mechanical engineering, based in Issoire in the Puy-de-Dôme region of France.

Evolution of the e-Blast 100% electric project, unveiled in 2021

The e-Blast, the first prototype to be unveiled at the Dakar Rally in 2021, was an all-electric vehicle. After several test sessions in extreme conditions, it enabled GCK Performance teams to gather the data needed to develop its H2 version: increased electric motor power, reduced battery pack capacity and integration of a new cooling system for faster vehicle recharging.

In partnership with FEV, GCK has developed a fuel cell with a power output of around 200 kW, powered by 30 kg of hydrogen stored in four R134-certified tanks at a pressure of 700 bar.

Concentrated GCK technologies for low-carbon mobility

This new generation of high-power fuel cells recharges a 50.7 kWh lithium-ion battery, which in turn powers the new electric motor designed to deliver 320 kW, the equivalent of 430 hp. Two technologies developed respectively by GCK Battery and Solution F, subsidiaries of the GCK Group.

A veritable innovation platform, the e-Blast H2 will leave for trials in January, enabling us to test technologies applied to projects by the Group’s industrial branch, such as the prototype snow groomer developed by GCK Mobility, using the same fuel cell technology.

This vehicle reflects the agnostic vision of the GCK Group, a major player in the decarbonization of transport. Following the presentation of the Foenix H2 project, one of the world’s first GT racing cars powered by a hydrogen combustion engine, during the centenary of the Le Mans 24-hour race, this new prototype demonstrates the group’s commitment to offering the right technology for the right purpose.

The Africa Eco Race: a competition in line with the group’s values

GCK has chosen to present the e-Blast H2 at the start of the Africa Eco Race, a competition whose aim is to give sustainable development a real dimension by integrating eco-responsible approaches into the race organization.

This 15th edition of the competition is also an opportunity for GCK Performance to demonstrate its technology and know-how through the participation of two T3Us it has designed and manufactured on behalf of Apache Automotive. The two hybrid-technology prototype vehicles will set off on the demanding course of the African continent, where they will face extreme conditions. The APH-01 is a unique concept created by GCK Performance, from the design of the vehicle to the manufacture, assembly and development of the prototype in its Issoire workshops.

Technical specifications of the e-Blast H2 vehicle:

• 320kW motor, designed by GCK subsidiary Solution F
• Single-speed gearbox
• 14-brick H2 battery – 50.7 kWh, designed by GCK Battery, a GCK subsidiary
• 4 FORVIA fuel tanks: 350 b- 4.7 kg (current version) / 700 b – 7.8 kg (future version), for a range of 250Kms before refuelling
• Dimensions (L x W x H) 5.1 m x 2.4 m x 1.85 m – wheelbase 3.62 m
• Weight: 2,800 kg
• GCK fuel cell in partnership with FEV; 160 Kw continuous output

Eric Boudot, President of GCK:“I’m delighted and proud to present the e-Blast H2 at the start of this legendary race, which shares common values with our Group. The technologies developed around this prototype represent major advances in both motorsport and carbon-free mobility! I’d like to thank the Africa Eco Race and Jean Louis Schlesser for welcoming us, and congratulate the GCK Performance teams on their unfailing commitment to this major project for the GCK Group”.

Press contact GCK

Hélène Plisson

GCK Marketing & Communications Manager

helene.plisson@gck.co