Toyota Unveils 50-Tonne Hydrogen Truck for Heavy Freight Transport in New Zealand
Key Ideas
  • Toyota, TR Group, and Global Bus Ventures introduce a 50-tonne hydrogen fuel cell electric truck for heavy freight transport, promoting zero-emissions solutions.
  • The truck, converted from a DAF CF 530 by GBV, is powered by two Toyota 85kW fuel cells, a 124kWh battery system, and onboard hydrogen storage.
  • Toyota New Zealand emphasizes hydrogen's role in a clean energy future, supporting domestic hydrogen industry growth and committing to carbon neutrality.
  • The initiative includes a Government-supported program with Hiringa Energy, offering 20 hydrogen-powered trucks via a fully maintained operating lease, showcasing significant investment.
TR Group, in partnership with Global Bus Ventures (GBV), and Toyota New Zealand have unveiled a 50-tonne hydrogen fuel cell electric truck, positioned as a practical zero-emissions solution for heavy freight transport in New Zealand. This truck, a retrofitted DAF CF 530 converted by GBV, features two Toyota 85kW fuel cells, a 124kWh battery system, and 52kg of onboard hydrogen storage. The vehicle operates similarly to traditional diesel trucks, with fast refueling times and a range of 500km, aligning with industry standards. Toyota New Zealand's involvement underscores their commitment to promoting hydrogen as a sustainable energy source and supporting the domestic hydrogen industry. The company's CEO, Tatsuya Ishikawa, highlighted Toyota's global dedication to carbon neutrality and the significance of hydrogen in the clean energy future. Toyota's initiatives in the hydrogen sector include supplying fuel cells for the truck, leasing out Mirai FCEVs, and collaborating with TR Group and GBV to introduce more hydrogen-powered freight vehicles on New Zealand roads. The partnership includes a Government-supported program with Hiringa Energy, where TR Group will provide 20 hydrogen-powered trucks via a fully maintained operating lease, reflecting a substantial investment. Additionally, Toyota New Zealand has been actively involved in various hydrogen projects, such as introducing the Toyota Mirai FCEV and the 'Chase Zero' hydrogen-powered foiling chase boat. The boat, powered by Toyota fuel cells, showcased speeds of up to 35 knots with water as the only emissions, demonstrating the potential of hydrogen technology in different sectors.
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