As we face the critical challenge of reducing CO₂ emissions, thefreight sector—covering road, rail, air, and sea transport—contributes significantly to global CO₂ emissions, making up about 8-10% of the total. However, the industry now has a chance to transform. Hydrogen trucks, now appearing on European roads, offer a promising path toward zero-emission transport.
What makes hydrogen trucks relevant in the energy transition, andhow will they reshape the logistics industry?
Understanding Hydrogen Trucks
What Exactly is a Hydrogen Truck?
Unlike traditional diesel trucks that emit harmful pollutants likeCO₂ and fine particles, hydrogen trucks are powered by fuel cells that produceelectricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Thesetrucks carry hydrogen gas tanks, and, when hydrogen mixes with oxygen in thefuel cell, it generates electricity that powers an electric motor, moving thetruck. The only byproduct of this process is water vapor.
To explore the hydrogen trucks currently available on the market,click here.
How Do Fuel Cells Work in Trucks?
A fuel cell generates electricity through an electrochemicalreaction. Hydrogen enters the anode, where it separates into protons andelectrons. The protons pass through an electrolyte membrane to the cathode,while the electrons flow through an external circuit, creating an electriccurrent. At the cathode, protons, electrons, and oxygen combine, producing water as the only byproduct.
Other Available Technologies
Hydrogen combustion trucks, distinct from fuel cell trucks, are equipped with engines that burn hydrogen instead of traditional fuels. Unlikefuel cells that generate electricity, these engines directly burn hydrogen to produce energy, emitting mainly water vapor along with trace particles.
Environmental Benefits of Hydrogen Trucks for the FreightIndustry
Reducing Carbon Footprint with Hydrogen
Approximately 40 million trucks operate globally in the freight sector, contributing around 2.2 billion tons of CO₂ emissions annually. Eliminating CO₂ emissions from freight transport is crucial for achieving sustainability goals.
Ensuring Green Hydrogen
Currently, most hydrogen available is “grey,” meaning its productioninvolves significant CO₂ emissions. Green hydrogen, produced from renewablesources like wind or solar energy, emits less than 1 kg of CO₂ per kilogram of hydrogen produced, offering a more sustainable and environmentally friendlyoption.
Technological Advances in Hydrogen Trucks
Efficiency and Range
One of the most notable features of hydrogen trucks is their efficiency and long range. Unlike electric trucks, which require lengthy charging times, hydrogen trucks can refuel in under 15 minutes and offer alonger range, making them ideal for long-haul routes and heavy-duty tasks.
To see the hydrogen trucks available on the market today, click here.
Innovative Design and Development
The development of hydrogen trucks has seen significant innovation, balancing high power and range with space for hydrogen tanks and fuel cells, while retaining cargo space to ensure transport efficiency. Advances in fuelcell technology, hydrogen storage, lightweight materials, and smart systems continue to enhance the performance and efficiency of hydrogen trucks.
Upfront Cost as a Challenge for Some Transport Operators
Currently, a hydrogen truck costs about three times as much as adiesel truck. However, the financial benefit lies in calculating the Total Costof Ownership (TCO), which considers the full lifecycle cost, availablesubsidies in different countries, and the impact of CO₂ pricing regulations.
Conclusion
Hydrogen trucks pave the way for a zero-emission freight industry.Their environmental benefits, efficiency, and economic potential make them keyto the future of transportation. As technology advances and infrastructuregrows, hydrogen trucks will play an increasingly important role in establishingsustainable logistics.
