Loblaw and FortisBC have launched British Columbia’s first commercial trial of a hydrogen-powered Class 8 truck, marking a step toward decarbonizing long-haul freight. The long-term pilot, unveiled at Loblaw’s Marine Drive distribution centre in Vancouver, brings together government and industry partners to evaluate hydrogen’s potential in large-scale transport.
The hydrogen-powered vehicle, a Hyundai Xcient Fuel Cell model leased from HTEC, began regular delivery operations in mid-October. It has been transporting groceries between Vancouver and Squamish as part of efforts to study real-world performance, refuelling times, and operational efficiency. The findings will help determine hydrogen’s role in future logistics planning across the province.
Unlike battery-electric trucks, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles can refuel within minutes and cover hundreds of kilometres per tank, making them a promising solution for long-distance freight. However, hydrogen infrastructure remains limited in British Columbia, with HTEC’s Southeast Marine Drive location serving as one of the few public refuelling stations in operation.
The trial will run through late 2025 and is expected to provide key insights into maintenance requirements, fuelling logistics, and total cost of ownership. Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said the project illustrates how collaboration between public and private sectors can advance Canada’s clean energy goals.
“By cutting emissions, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable growth in the transportation sector and beyond, projects like this are helping build a stronger, more resilient future for our country,” MacKinnon said.
Heavy-duty trucking accounts for nearly a third of Canada’s transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions. For Loblaw, the initiative supports its broader commitment to achieving net-zero operations by 2040. The company said the pilot demonstrates that zero-emission delivery within the grocery supply chain is becoming an achievable reality.
Source: DriveTeslaCanada