Most common questions answered

Hydrogen (H2) is a chemical element that can be used to store and deliver energy. There are many ways to produce hydrogen and it needs a primary source of energy to be produced. The most common way to produce hydrogen today is from natural gas using Steam methane reforming. 

The most widely discussed alternative that is currently the leading pathway to achieve carbon-neutral hydrogen production, is to produce hydrogen by electrolysis of water using renewable power such as solar, wind, water, etc. This is currently the main track for establishing the hydrogen economy with a maximum climate benefit.

A fuel cell truck is an electric truck (FCEV) that generates electricity from fuel cells. These are powered by hydrogen, which is fueled and stored in tanks on the truck. In a fuel cell, hydrogen and oxygen are combined through an electrochemical reaction to generate electricity, heat and water.
 

This is in contrast to a battery electric truck (BEV), which gets its energy from batteries that are charged via an external electricity source. A fuel cell truck also has a battery that can provide energy storage and power when needed. This battery is much smaller compared to the battery in a BEV.  Hydrogen trucks are expected to carry more energy and provide longer ranges than a BEV.

Hydrogen-powered vehicles can have a very low carbon footprint, when the hydrogen is produced from renewable sources. They can offer a high-energy, low-emission alternative to fossil fuels. However, sustainability depends on the entire lifecycle of the hydrogen fuel and vehicle, including production, operation, and disposal.
 

Hydrogen fuel cell trucks are more energy-efficient to operate than traditional internal combustion engine trucks, but not as energy efficient as battery-electric trucks.
 

One of the benefits of running on hydrogen is that the fuel can be produced when there is an excess of renewable energy (wind blowing, sun shining). The hydrogen is then stored and potentially used when renewable energy production is more limited.

A safe use of Hydrogen means preventing situations where there can be a leakage in combination with a cause of ignition. Hydrogen is non-toxic and disperses rapidly when released into the air. Our trucks, in combination with on board leak detection systems and thermal management provide a very safe environment.
 

Like other fuels, it requires knowledge of using Hydrogen safely. Leak detection and adequate ventilation, when the truck is operating or parked indoors, are important. Testing of hydrogen systems shows that hydrogen can be produced, stored, and dispensed safely.

Hydrogen trucks are an exciting development towards our target of a fossil free trucking industry. But it will not be the most suitable solution for all trucks and transport segments. A discussion with one of our team members could be a first step to learn what’s the best option for you.

Hydrogen-powered trucks are generally more efficient than internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks, primarily due to the higher energy efficiency of fuel cells compared to traditional engines.

 

While ICE trucks convert only about 20-25% of the energy in fuel into useful power, hydrogen fuel cells can convert up to 60% of the energy in hydrogen into propulsion, resulting in better energy use. Additionally, hydrogen-powered trucks produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing environmental impact compared to the CO2 and pollutants emitted by ICE trucks.

 

Overall, hydrogen-powered trucks offer higher efficiency in energy conversion and cleaner emissions, making them a more sustainable choice for long-haul transportation compared to ICE trucks, especially as infrastructure improves.