Toyota is rolling out hydrogen fuel cell lorries across its European delivery network. These 40-tonne vehicles, developed by Dutch manufacturer VDL Groep using Toyota’s fuel cell technology, are now transporting parts and accessories from the company’s European Parts Centre in Diest, Belgium.
The new lorries are designed to match the performance of traditional diesel vehicles but with zero tailpipe emissions. Each vehicle is capable of covering up to 250 miles on a single tank of hydrogen in real-world driving conditions. The hydrogen fuel cell system generates electricity by combining hydrogen with oxygen, powering a smooth and quiet electric motor. For drivers, that means less vibration and a more comfortable ride. For the general public, it means reduced noise and cleaner air.
“This initiative is in line with Toyota’s goal to reach carbon neutrality in its logistics operations by 2040 and also aims to help grow the hydrogen economy. Heavy-duty fuel cell trucks can boost the demand for hydrogen, which is a key contributor along with the implementation of the European Union’s Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). Together with our logistics providers, we want to gather learnings from operation of our first hydrogen-powered logistics fleet and further improve the vehicles and operating processes.”
Thiebault Paquet, Toyota Motor Europe Vice President R&D
* ’Zero tailpipe emissions’ refers to the powertrain where no greenhouse gases or harmful particles are emitted by the tailpipe while driving. Only H2O is emitted by the tailpipe. Emissions may still exist at other stages of the product lifecycle (extraction, manufacturing, logistics, maintenance, recycling/scrapping), but also during use (tyres, brakes) and the production of hydrogen, depending on its source.
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