Hyzon Motors (HYZN) is continuing its quest to be a market leader in the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) technology space with the confirmation that it has completed a pilot program of its Fuel Cell Electric Truck (FCET) heavy-duty Class 8 refuse and recycling truck developed with sustainable waste and recycling management firm Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery (MDRR). This is the first time such a vehicle has successfully finished testing in North America.
To date, only battery-electric garbage trucks, rather than hydrogen-powered trucks, have entered service. The trial took place in rural parts of California, specifically Concord, Pittsburg, Oakley, Rio Vista, and parts of unincorporated Contra Costa. The test proved hydrogen, at least in this field, that it's an effective and clean alternative to traditional diesel fuel. The technology also aligns with California's Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) requirements.
[Related: Colorado city launches country's first EV garbage and recycling truck fleet]
“This successful trial showcases the potential for hydrogen to drive meaningful decarbonization, without sacrificing performance, in challenging sectors like waste and recycling. We are excited to be driving forward hydrogen-powered solutions in collaboration with our customers that deliver both environmental and operational benefits,” said Hyzon CEO Parker Meeks.
This trial run is actually Hyzon's tenth since last July, all of which were deemed successful in regards to meeting or exceeding potential customer expectations. The OEM's refuse collection FCET was built in partnership with New Way Trucks, a privately held refuse truck body manufacturer.
Hyzon says its fuel systems provide consistent power over an expected range of at least 125 miles. This includes at least 1,300 cart lifts as well as trips to the transfer station. Compared to diesel-powered trucks, the FCET's fuel efficiency increased by up to 300 percent. The company says the trial program further indicates that in some routes over 1,500 cart lifts are possible on a single tank of hydrogen.
In addition to the FCET platform, Hyzon is continuing with its Class 8 200 kW FCET trial program. Assuming all goes to plan, Hyzon believes it will complete customer trials with over 30 fleets across both platforms by February 2025.
[Related: Hyzon Motor's Class 8 FCEV semi completes trial run, but questions remain]
Last summer, Hyzon shut down operations in the Netherlands and Australia in order to focus solely on North America. It also sold 22.5 million shares of common stock in order to raise badly-needed capital, and asked for and received a 180-day extension to avoid a Nasdaq delisting.
[Related: Hyzon Motors receives 180-day extension for Nasdaq compliance]
