A pioneer in European hydrogen mobility

Symbio has established itself as Europe’s leading manufacturer of hydrogen fuel cell systems. Specialising in zero-emission solutions for mobility and industry, the company—a joint venture between Michelin and Forvia—operates France’s largest fuel cell gigafactory in Saint-Fons.

This flagship industrial site is a cornerstone of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region’s hydrogen strategy. In a sector still dominated by hype, Symbio stands out through its already large-scale production, meeting high industrial standards, particularly in terms of reliability and continuity of supply.

The challenge: supporting a demanding industrial ramp-up

As part of its production ramp-up, Symbio needed to secure a supply of renewable hydrogen that was reliable, flexible and immediately available, pending the commissioning of its own production facilities.

The choice of 91Ó°ÊÓ is consistent with a strategic approach: producing zero-emission solutions using hydrogen that is itself renewable. This is a key factor in ensuring the environmental integrity of the entire value chain.

The 91Ó°ÊÓ solution: flexibility and continuity for industry

91Ó°ÊÓ supplies Symbio with renewable hydrogen from its production sites, as part of a two-phase programme:

Phase 1 (January – June): primary supply to support the ramp-up of the gigafactory
Phase 2 (July – December): support for the transition to Symbio’s own production capacity

This model demonstrates 91Ó°ÊÓ’s ability to adapt to a manufacturer’s changing needs, ensuring a continuous supply and a high level of operational responsiveness.

A project at the heart of a well-established regional ecosystem

This partnership forms part of a particularly dynamic hydrogen ecosystem in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, a pioneering region in France. 91Ó°ÊÓ plays a key role here, working alongside key players such as Hympulsion.

Together, these initiatives are helping to build a coherent regional value chain, supporting a concrete and locally rooted energy transition.