Nikola Motor, a company specializing in hydrogen-electric trucks, has received an order for over 50 fuel cell vehicles from AJR Trucking, a carrier for the United States Postal Service. The order includes Tre FCEV heavy-duty trucks, scheduled for delivery between Q4 2023 and Q1 2024. In addition, Nikola plans to build up to 50 hydrogen refuelling stations in North America over the next five years under its new Hyla brand in cooperation with infrastructure partner Voltera.
AJR and Nikola will also explore deploying Nikola’s 10,000 psi (700 bar) mobile fueling stations at AJR properties in Compton and Santa Clarita in California. Nikola and its Southern California dealer, Tom’s Truck Centers, will support AJR Trucking in securing funding through CARB’s Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project program.
See also: Nikola secures parts supply for production of Tre electric trucks this year
While AJR Trucking had already ordered 25 battery-electric trucks from US manufacturer Kenworth last year, the company sees FCEVs as the next step forward, given their zero tailpipe emissions, long-range, and fast fueling times. In addition, Nikola’s refuelling stations can be used by trucks from other manufacturers, aligning with the company’s goal of building 60 hydrogen filling stations in North America by 2026 to drive the introduction of its own H2 truck.
Nikola’s plans for the new refuelling infrastructure reflect its confidence that the future of trucking is zero-emissions. The company’s partnership with Voltera will bring substantial capital and expertise to support Nikola’s plans to build refuelling infrastructure to support its customers. By partnering with Nikola, Voltera is expanding its focus beyond battery-electric vehicle charging to dramatically increase hydrogen fueling infrastructure.
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The proposed sites for the new hydrogen refuelling stations include the Los Angeles industrial zone where AJR Trucking operates, highlighting the growing importance of sustainable transportation in the region. With this new development, Nikola and AJR Trucking are paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for the trucking industry in North America.
