Two auto experts, Honda and Isuzu are working together to research the development of hydrogen fuel cells that could power heavy-duty trucks. This would mean that they could turn some of the most high-emission vehicles into zero-emission vehicles. Given the importance of large trucks for transit and transport today, we need them. But we need them to be cleaner and safer.
In the recent past, I’ve talked about other fuel cell trucks in development such as the Kenworth T680, Nikola Hydrogen Truck, Toyota Big Rig Fuel Cell Truck Concept and the Vision Tyrano truck.
However, this new two-year agreement between Honda and Isuzu, is a landmark step in the right direction for clean fuel cell trucks. Isuzu will be working on the Honda fuel cell powertrain, that has been built for development in cars. The aim is to start using these fuel cells in a wider selection of vehicles, including heavy duty trucks.
Hydrogen fuel cells will be a much better choice for larger vehicles such as buses and large storage trucks. A spokesman for Honda spoke to the press to brief them of the latest development, and said: “Although we have done extensive R&D into passenger FCVs (fuel cell vehicles), we have not been able to study how best to apply the technology to commercial vehicles. This partnership will allow us to do that.”
The dawn of commercial fuel cell trucks
Isuzu, meanwhile, showed similar hope for the success of the project. Speaking about it, the Isuzu spokeswoman said: “We think that FCV technology is well suited for heavier trucks which travel longer distances, and this partnership will enable us to examine this further,”
With Honda already developing and marketing the Clarity Fuel Cell car, they have the most experience of arguably anyone in making this work. Isuzu, meanwhile, has been in the light-and-medium truck industry for years. Despite being invested in diesel tech until now, they’ve moved into marketing fully electric trucks.
With many vehicle makers coming together to try and find consensus, the rise of electrical vehicles, in all sizes and classes. shows no signs of slowing down. It’ll be interesting to see, then, what the future holds for this very interesting fuel cell partnership.
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