CNR-ITAE is involved in projects related to hybrid electric fuel cell vehicles, in which different powertrain configurations (from FC full powertrain to range extender) have been evaluated, in terms of the energy flows and system components size. The principal aim is to develop fuel cell-battery hybrid powertrains to be used in vehicles designed for some niche markets. A traction battery pack, a starting battery pack, a fuel cell power module and the combination of a parallel fuel cell-battery hybrid system have been tested. In this latter configuration, the fuel cell is used as main power source for the powertrain, also providing battery charge. The battery has the role to provide peak power during the starts of the vehicle. The hybrid powertrain has shown a fast response even at extreme and impulsive loads and a wider range compared to a battery vehicle, without compromising the weight limitations on the vehicles. (C) 2008 International Association for Hydrogen Energy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.