Toyota Motor Europe has partnered with VDL Groep to introduce fuel cell trucks in a move towards sustainable logistics. This collaboration aims to achieve zero tailpipe emissions in heavy-duty logistics vehicles, with the deployment of four additional fuel cell trucks following an initial demonstration vehicle.
These trucks are now operating across key logistics routes in Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Toyota is working with logistics providers Vos Transport Group, CEVA Logistics, Groupe CAT, and Yusen Logistics to integrate these zero-emission vehicles into the daily operations of Toyota Parts Centre Europe.
The Toyota Parts Centre Europe, a hub handling over 500,000 parts and accessories daily, will closely monitor the performance of the 40-tonne fuel cell trucks. These trucks offer comparable performance to diesel counterparts but produce no tailpipe emissions. Powered by electricity generated from hydrogen and oxygen, they have a range of up to 400km on a single refuel under real-world conditions.
In addition to environmental benefits, the fuel cell trucks provide a smoother ride with vibration-free electric motors, enhancing driving comfort and reducing community disturbance. Toyota Motor Europe’s R&D vice president, Thiebault Paquet, emphasized the initiative’s alignment with Toyota’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality in logistics operations by 2040 and contribute to growing the hydrogen economy.
FAW Toyota has also launched the new bZ5 battery-powered SUV in China as part of Toyota’s strategy to expand its presence in the rapidly growing new energy vehicle market. This move offers a competitively priced option for consumers in China.
The introduction of fuel cell trucks and battery-powered SUVs reflects Toyota’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions and reducing carbon emissions. By embracing innovative technologies and strategic partnerships, Toyota continues to lead the way towards a more sustainable future in the automotive industry.
