DHL Supply Chain and Diageo North America have enhanced their sustainability initiatives with the introduction of two hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks into their U.S. fleet. Manufactured by Nikola Corporation, these Class 8 trucks are the first of their kind to operate daily in Illinois, marking a notable development in sustainable transportation. This partnership aims to lower emissions and promote a cleaner environment.
The hydrogen fuel cell trucks are expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 80% annually compared to traditional diesel trucks, producing no tailpipe emissions. The introduction of these vehicles not only contributes to improved air quality but also enhances the driver experience with reduced noise levels and increased safety and comfort.
DHL Supply Chain has worked with Diageo North America for over two decades, focusing on innovative approaches to decarbonize logistics operations. The integration of hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks is part of a broader sustainability strategy that includes the use of battery electric vehicles, route optimization, and partnerships with U.S. EPA SmartWay carriers to minimize carbon emissions.
“We are thrilled to integrate Nikola’s hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks into our U.S. fleet,” said Jim Monkmeyer, President of Transportation at DHL Supply Chain. “As a global logistics company with the goal of decarbonizing its business, we’ve integrated sustainability as a fourth strategic bottom line named ‘Green Logistics of Choice’ in our newly announced Strategy 2030.”
Nikola’s hydrogen trucks utilize fuel cell technology to convert hydrogen into electricity, providing up to 500 miles of range on a single fill-up. By replacing diesel vehicles, these trucks aim to reduce local emissions such as particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, thereby enhancing air quality. Additionally, the trucks are designed to improve driver comfort and safety with advanced camera systems and reduced noise levels.
Marsha McIntosh, President of North America Supply at Diageo, commented on the significance of this partnership: “We are extremely excited to be a part of this partnership delivering the first set of heavy-duty hydrogen trucks to Illinois, home to our largest manufacturing hub in North America. This initiative is part of our continued work to decarbonize our footprint in Plainfield, Illinois, making our operations more efficient and sustainable.”
The deployment of these hydrogen trucks is the culmination of 18 months of collaboration among DHL, Diageo, and Nikola, involving coordination with local stakeholders, trial runs, and educational efforts regarding the technology. This development builds on previous initiatives, such as the introduction of electric vehicle yard trucks at the Diageo campus in 2015.
Steve Girsky, President and CEO of Nikola, stated, “We’re proud to work alongside visionary partners like DHL and Diageo in driving the transition to zero-emissions transportation. Their commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with our mission.”
