The decarbonization of Toyota’s operations continues with the launch of heavy-duty hydrogen fuel cell trucks on the company’s European logistics routes. The vehicles, built by VDL Groep and equipped with Toyota fuel cell modules, are being used to transport parts and accessories from Toyota’s European Parts Centre in Diest, Belgium – including items that will ultimately be shipped to the UK.
Image Credit: Toyota
Toyota has joined forces with Vos Transport Group, CEVA Logistics, Groupe CAR and Yusen Logistics to operate the trucks and evaluate their performance. The Diest operation currently process more than half a million parts and accessories every day.
The 40-tonne fuel cell truck’s performance is similar to that of a diesel vehicle, but with zero tailpipe emissions – its motor is powered by electricity generated by hydrogen and oxygen in the fuel cell. On a single tank of hydrogen, it can cover up to 250 miles (400km) in real-world driving conditions. The vibration-free electric motor also means there is less local disturbance when the vehicle passes through communities and a more comfortable ride for the driver.
Thiebault Paquet, Toyota Motor Europe Vice President R&D, said: “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.”