DHL Express tests hydrogen truck in Benelux
DHL Express, a part of Deutsche Post DHL Group, has been testing its first hydrogen-powered truck. The experiment takes place in the Benelux region within the Interreg NW Europe programme ‘H2-Share’, coordinated by WaterstofNet.
The test operations of the hydrogen-powered heavy goods vehicle were organised for Apple. DHL Express regards innovative fuel as a prominent alternative to diesel. Such a goal was prescribed into the company’s Sustainability Roadmap, which committed participants to heavily invest in the use of alternative fuels.
“In a globalised world, sustainable and clean fuels are essential for climate-neutral logistics. Not only for sea and air freight but also line-haul road freight, as this help to reduce CO2 emissions. That’s why we engage not only in the electrification of our fleet but also invest in the development of alternative drive systems for very long ranges. The project shows that we can achieve truly emission-free logistics in Europe if we join forces and build on experience,” Alberto Nobis, CEO of DHL Express Europe, said.
Dutch footprint
The truck, which is examined by DHL Express, is operated by Dutch Nassau Sneltransport. It covers a daily distance of around 200 kilometres, running the cross-border route in the Benelux region. To refuel the vehicle, the Wystrach-developed mobile refuelling station in Breda has been applied. “While battery-electric trucks can operate efficiently within last-mile delivery, fuels from renewable energies such as hydrogen are essential for zero-emission line-haul. Due to their vast potential, DHL Express is now testing a heavy-duty vehicle, with a fuel cell range extender from VDL,” the company stated. During the two-month piloting phase, up to 35 tonnes of carbon emissions can be saved with the new solution.