Talke USA is partnering with Symbio North America to convert two Class 8 Freightliner Cascadia trucks into hydrogen-electric drayage vehicles.
The initiative aligns with Talke's sustainability program, called Crafting Responsible Logistics, which aims to lower emissions in chemical transport while maintaining the high safety and performance standards the industry demands.
As part of the partnership, Symbio says it'll integrate its advanced fuel cell and hydrogen-electric powertrain technology into its existing fleet, thus transforming them into zero-emission drayage vehicles that have been optimized for short-distance hauling. Talke anticipates the upgraded rigs will be fully functional by sometime in 2026.
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Talke leadership says the initiative is a key move toward a hydrogen-based fueling infrastructure for heavy-duty transport.
"This investment reflects our long-term vision for sustainable logistics," said Alexander Boehm, chief operating officer of Talke USA, Inc. "By integrating Symbio's advanced hydrogen-electric systems into our fleet, we’re reducing emissions while actively contributing to the development of a hydrogen ecosystem for heavy transport - laying the groundwork for a scalable, commercially viable and sustainable future in logistics."
Richard Heath, Talke CEO and President, further pointed out "partnerships like this are essential to bridge the gap between innovation and infrastructure. Operating in Houston, a designated hydrogen hub, gives us a strategic advantage as we scale up clean transport solutions."
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The refurbished trucks will specifically be adapted to meet the needs of Talke's drayage services, particularly addressing the challenges of chemical logistics and short-haul operations. Talke also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a balance between safety, reliability, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
