Cling selects Garrett oil-free centrifugal compressor for next-generation electric bus and truck HVAC systems in China

Garrett Motion has received its first serial production award for an oil-free centrifugal compressor for electric buses and trucks in China, with start of production scheduled for 2027.

Garrett Motion Inc. announced that Chinese commercial vehicle HVAC specialist Cling has selected its oil-free, foil bearing-based centrifugal compressor, named E-Cooling, for integration into next-generation electric bus and truck thermal management systems. The award marks the first serial production application of the technology in the mobility sector.

Garrett compressor for Cling’s HVAC e-bus systems

The proprietary Garrett centrifugal compressor will be deployed in Cling’s HVAC systems for electric commercial vehicles operating in the Chinese market. Start of production is planned for 2027.

According to the company, the compressor integrates an ultra-high-speed electric motor exceeding 160,000 rpm combined with an oil-free foil bearing system. The architecture is designed to deliver reduced package size, lower weight and lower noise levels compared with conventional scroll compressors.

Garrett states that the system is up to 50% smaller, 30% lighter and 10 dB quieter than traditional scroll-based solutions. The compressor is engineered for compatibility with 400V to 800V heat pump systems and supports low-pressure, low-GWP refrigerants.

The oil-free configuration is validated for up to 45,000 hours of maintenance-free operation, based on testing conducted during 2025 by both Garrett and Cling. The core technologies are developed for automotive-grade, scalable production targeting electric vehicle and industrial applications.

Garrett Motion, headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan, and Rolle, Switzerland, operates six R&D centers and 13 manufacturing facilities globally, employing approximately 8,700 people across more than 20 countries. The company’s portfolio includes turbocharging technologies, fuel cell compressors and electrification solutions for automotive and industrial applications. Garrett has been present in China since 1994, with headquarters in Shanghai, two manufacturing facilities in Shanghai and Wuhan, and two innovation centers. The company employs more than 1,000 people in China, including over 200 R&D specialists.

Olivier Rabiller, President and CEO of Garrett Motion, said: “This collaboration brings Garrett’s cutting-edge centrifugal cooling compressor technology to electric commercial vehicle applications for the first time. By combining our high-speed, oil-free compressor architecture with Cling’s leadership in commercial vehicle HVAC systems, we are setting new benchmarks for efficiency and thermal performance – driving innovation for electric buses and trucks in China and beyond.”

Junfeng Guo, General Manager of Cling, said: “Our collaboration with Garrett reflects Cling’s vision to become a leading provider of integrated HVAC and thermal management solutions for commercial vehicles. This partnership will help us push the boundaries of comfort, efficiency, and environmental responsibility across China and global markets.”