Abstract: Methods and systems for an electric vehicle (EV) propulsion are provided. A method for operating an EV propulsion system is provided, in one example, that includes, while a traction battery assembly generates electric power, initiating start-up of a hydrogen fuel cell assembly based on a first battery state of charge (SOC) threshold and a first hydrogen fuel storage threshold to transition into a hybrid mode of operation. In the propulsion system, the traction battery assembly includes one or more traction batteries that are electrically coupled to one or more hydrogen fuel cells in the hydrogen fuel cell assembly via a distribution assembly, where the distribution assembly is electrically coupled to a traction motor.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for an electric vehicle powertrain. The vehicle system includes an electric distribution assembly with a junction box that is electrically coupled to a traction motor-generator and is designed to electrically coupled to, via separate circuits, a traction battery assembly and a hydrogen fuel cell assembly that is positioned behind a vehicle cab. In the system, the traction battery assembly is positioned vertically below the hydrogen fuel cell assembly.