DHL Express Launches Pilot Project with Hydrogen Truck

DHL Express is testing a heavy-duty vehicle with a fuel cell range extender from VDL. Apple is the first customer to test the new logistics solution. The truck is part of a European test program being conducted between the Netherlands and Belgium. The pilot project is part of Deutsche Post DHL Group’s decarbonization strategy.

(Bonn/Breda) DHL Express is the first division of Deutsche Post DHL Group to test hydrogen-powered trucks for scheduled services. DHL is conducting a truck pilot test on the route between Breda in the Netherlands and Brussels in Belgium as part of the “H2 Share” project of the Interreg North-West Europe program. The aim of the program, coordinated by WaterstofNet, is to facilitate the development of CO₂-low hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles for logistics and to gather practical experience in various areas. The program creates a transnational Living Lab and a foundation for the development of the emissions-free heavy-duty vehicle industry.

“In a globalized world, sustainable and clean fuels are crucial for climate-neutral logistics. This applies not only to sea and air freight but also to road freight transport, as it reduces CO₂ emissions,” explains Alberto Nobis, CEO of DHL Express Europe. “That’s why we are committed not only to electrifying our fleet but also to investing in the development of alternative drive systems for long distances. The project demonstrates that we can achieve truly emissions-free logistics in Europe if we come together and build on experiences.”

Hydrogen for Emissions-Free Scheduled Services

While battery-electric trucks can be efficiently used for last-mile delivery, fuels from renewable energies such as hydrogen are important for emissions-free scheduled services. DHL Express is now testing a heavy-duty vehicle with a fuel cell range extender from VDL. The truck, operated by the Dutch carrier Nassau Sneltransport, covers a daily distance of about 200 km and crosses the Dutch-Belgian border. As part of the project, the truck refuels daily in Breda at a mobile filling station from Wystrach. It transports shipments for DHL Express customer Apple. During the pilot phase, up to 350 tons of CO₂ can be saved with this new technology.

In line with its sustainability roadmap, Deutsche Post DHL Group is heavily investing in the use of alternative fuels. Hydrogen opens up new markets and can contribute to green transport solutions. Insights from the project will help evaluate the potential of this fuel alternative and support decision-making processes.

Photo: © DHL Express