Dutch VDL Groep will convert existing heavy-duty trucks into zero-emission carriers using Toyota fuel cell modules. The new fuel cell trucks will be used within Toyota's logistics network, which will reduce the company's carbon footprint. The project is part of Toyota's efforts to achieve a full carbon-neutral strategy by 2040.
Toyota's hydrogen trucks offer a significant potential to decarbonize its logistics routes. These trucks have a lower mass than other zero-emission options, allowing for heavier payload, and fast refueling of hydrogen is essential for high utilization transport.
VDL Groep will build the first fuel cell truck by the summer of 2023, followed by more vehicles to be produced and assessed on TME logistics routes in the autumn of 2023. This project will consolidate learnings on how to deploy fuel cell trucks and supports the company’s long-term vision of decarbonizing logistics and reducing Toyota's carbon footprint beyond the electrification of passenger vehicles.
Toyota believes that hydrogen is one of the key building blocks toward carbon neutrality, using fuel cell technology for mobility and in the wider economy beyond transport. Fuel cell trucks also have a crucial role in the growth of the European hydrogen ecosystem, strongly supporting transport decarbonization and an ecological energy transition.
Toyota has recently put into place many similar projects with multiple partners, including those for light commercial vehicles, boats, trains, and buses, with the goal of accelerating the transition to a hydrogen economy.
Source: Toyota