Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions, Hydro, Sourcing Renewables  -  November 24, 2021

Apple Tests DHL Express’ First Hydrogen Truck

DHL Express, a German international express service provider, is the first within Deutsche Post DHL Group to test hydrogen-fueled trucks for long distances with Apple as the first customer. 

DHL will pilot the vehicle between Breda, the Netherlands and Brussels, Belgium, as part of the Interreg NW Europe program H2-Share for Apple, the U.S. electronics giant. The program's goal is to facilitate the development of low-carbon heavy-duty vehicles on hydrogen for logistic applications and gain practical experience in different regions and create a basis for the development of the zero-emission heavy-duty vehicle industry.

“In a globalized 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 these help reduce CO2 emissions,” says Alberto Nobis, CEO DHL Express Europe in a statement. “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.” 

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. 

DHL Express is now testing a heavy-duty vehicle with a fuel cell range extender from VDL. The truck, operated by Dutch Nassau Sneltransport, covers a daily distance of around 200 km, running the crossborder route between the Netherlands and Belgium. The truck refuels on a daily basis in Breda at a mobile fuel station from Wystrach as part of the project as it transports deliveries for Apple. During the piloting phase, up to 350 tons of CO2 can be saved with the new technology. 

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