Colruyt Group and VDL Enabling Transport Solutions (VDL ETS) are taking the next step in making truck transport more sustainable with the deployment of 350-bar hydrogen trucks within the European H2Haul R&D project. As a dedicated end user, Colruyt Group is intensively testing the vehicles in its daily logistics operations, with the aim of demonstrating the practical applicability of hydrogen technology in the truck transport sector.
The H2Haul project is co-funded by the European Union* and aims to accelerate the introduction of hydrogen trucks in Europe. The collaboration between Colruyt Group, VDL ETS and other partners underlines the importance of cross-sectoral innovation to realize the transition to sustainable mobility. "We strongly believe in a zero-emission future for the logistics sector. Hydrogen is a promising technology alongside battery-electric transport. Thanks to the H2Haul project, we are moving closer to a sustainable and scalable solution." says Lieselot Rouquart, co-responsible for Zero Emission Transport at Colruyt Group.
The trucks currently being tested by the Belgian retail group are equipped with a series of technological innovations. For example, the fuel cell was developed by OPmobility in cooperation with VDL ETS. The hydrogen storage capacity is 40 kilograms, divided over seven lightweight carbon fiber tanks of 241 liters each, at a pressure of 350 bar. This configuration is fully compatible with a standard e-truck with day cab and trailer, without exceeding the legal maximum length of 16.5 meters.
Hydrogen is ideally suited for low-carbon heavy-duty mobility. However, changes in regulations on truck weights and dimensions would enable currently developed vehicles to achieve payloads equivalent to those of a diesel truck. Lieselot Rouquart does add: “We invite all governments in Belgium to support green mobility technology by implementing incentivizing legislative measures. We want to build and exchange on this together.”
The vehicle also features a 210 kWh battery pack and supports a maximum combined weight of 44 tonnes, and is being tested in both urban and rural environments. Thanks to the combination of hydrogen and battery technology, the range is currently around 450 kilometers - completely emission-free.
One hydrogen truck has been operational since the end of May, the second is expected soon and will also be deployed within Colruyt Group's logistics planning. The deployment in real working conditions provides valuable insights for the further development of hydrogen drives in heavy-duty applications.
The driver who is behind the wheel of the truck the most today is enthusiastic: "The truck drives very smoothly and comfortably. The fact that there are no gears makes it very pleasant to deliver. Beforehand, I had some doubts about its autonomy, but in the meantime, we have already gone smoothly over 300km a few times (loaded with carts). It is fun to work on this project as we are among the first in Belgium - and maybe even Europe - to drive hydrogen trucks. At distribution centers and car parks, people are constantly addressing me about and taking pictures of the truck."
