(Yicai Global) Nov. 11 -- Zotye International Automobile Trading and France's Air Liquide have been jointly developing metal bipolar voltaic piles, a key component for a new type of hydrogen fuel cell, for use in the Chinese carmaker's vehicles, Beijing News reported.

The component's design was completed in August, the report said. Based on current verification and test results, the entire stack's performance is expected to reach or exceed 3.5 kilowatts per liter.

Zhejiang province-based Zotye Auto has been boosting investment in research and development of hydrogen fuel cell technologies since 2016. It has simultaneously come up with technologies related to fuel cell systems and vehicles in projects to develop cars powered by hydrogen fuel cells.

The company's E200 model, which uses fuel cells, has already been modified, Zotye Auto noted, adding that it will get ready for mass production next year, and the firm can achieve CNY2.2 billion (USD314.4 million) in revenue if it sells 10,000 units.

The firm unveiled its first E200FCV model with hydrogen fuel cells at this year's Auto Shanghai. The model is scheduled to go on sale next year. Zotye Auto also boasts affiliated car marques such as Jiangnan and Traum.

Founded in 1902, Paris-headquartered Air Liquide is one of the world's biggest suppliers of industrial and medical gases and corresponding services.