This demonstration testing, which is scheduled to continue until September 2024, serves as a vital step in gathering data, accumulating insights, and identifying technical challenges in preparation for its planned market introduction in 2027.
The prototype model used for this testing mirrors the one showcased at the Isuzu Group booth during the Japan Mobility Show 2023.
With the collaboration of Isuzu Logistics Co., Ltd. and Honda Logistics Inc., the logistics arms of Isuzu Group and Honda Group, respectively, the Giga Fuel Cell will undergo real-world testing on public roads in Japan. This aims to validate the potential of hydrogen fuel utilization and the feasibility of FC trucks.
Isuzu and Honda believe that FC technology, powered by hydrogen and resulting in zero CO2 emissions, offers a promising path towards achieving carbon neutrality for heavy-duty trucks. These trucks are vital for high-efficiency transportation, boasting long-distance capabilities, substantial load capacity, and quick refueling.
The truck is called "Giga Fuel Cell" and has a total weight of 25 tons. It has four Honda fuel cell stacks, each with 103 kW of power and a hydrogen storage capacity of 56 kilograms. It is powered by a 320 kW electric motor and is said to go up to 800 kilometers (500 miles) between refueling stops. It measures 11,980 mm / 2,490 mm / 3,770 mm.
Since signing an agreement in January 2020 to jointly research FC-powered heavy-duty trucks, both companies have diligently worked on assessing the compatibility of the FC system with heavy-duty trucks and establishing fundamental technologies like vehicle control systems. Leveraging the expertise and knowledge gained through this collaborative research, Isuzu and Honda plan to introduce the production model to the market in 2027.
Source: Honda
