Distributed Energy Resources, Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions  -  January 10, 2019

Toyota and Kenworth collaborate on zero emission trucks

Toyota Motor North America announced it is collaborating with Kenworth Truck Company to develop 10 zero-emission Kenworth T680s powered by Toyota hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrains. The vehicles, which will have a range of more than 300 miles under normal drayage operating conditions, will transport cargo across the Los Angeles basin and to inland cities – such as Ontario and San Bernardino – while generating zero emissions, other than water vapor, thanks to their fully electric hydrogen fuel cell powertrain integrations co-developed by Kenworth and Toyota.

A release from Toyota explained that the trucks combine hydrogen gas and air to produce electricity. The electricity powers electric motors to move the trucks, while also charging the lithium-ion batteries to optimize performance as needed. Sophisticated power management systems will apportion the electrical power from the fuel cells to the motors, batteries, and other components, such as electrified power steering and brake air compressors.

"This is not just a science experiment; the goal is to make a difference in society. To remove pollution and improve the air quality in and around the Port of Los Angeles," said Bob Carter, executive vice president, Toyota Motor North America.

This collaboration is part of a $41 million Zero and Near-Zero Emissions Freight Facilities (ZANZEFF) grant preliminarily awarded by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), with the Port of Los Angeles as the prime applicant. The grant monies are part of a larger $82 million program that will put fuel cell electric tractors, hydrogen fueling infrastructure, and zero emissions cargo handling equipment into operation in the ports and Los Angeles basin in 2020.