The following is an article about delaying the purchase of any hydrogen powered truck in 2023, wait a couple of years… There are things you can do now to reduce diesel consumption, and you can get government grants to cover half the cost, up to limits.

In addition to saving money on the purchase, there is an instant fuel saving, please contact us to find out more: info@cleanfreight.ca

The trucking industry is constantly seeking innovative solutions to reduce emissions and operational costs while maintaining efficiency. One of the most recent advancements in this field is the development of hydrogen-powered semi-trucks. However, before trucking companies jump on the hydrogen bandwagon, it is crucial to carefully consider the potential drawbacks and uncertainties associated with this technology. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why trucking companies should think twice before investing in hydrogen-powered semi-trucks.

Prohibitively High Costs

While hydrogen-powered trucks hold the promise of emissions reduction and increased sustainability, the total cost of ownership is three times the price compared to conventional diesel or electric trucks.  The upfront investment required for hydrogen-powered vehicles is substantial. From the expensive fuel cell technology to the limited availability of hydrogen infrastructure, trucking companies may find themselves facing a significant financial burden that could take years to recoup.

Government grants are available, contact info@cleanfreight.ca to develop a strategy for your fleet transition.

Lack of Fueling Infrastructure

One of the most significant challenges facing hydrogen-powered trucks is the lack of a comprehensive refueling infrastructure. Unlike diesel or gasoline, hydrogen is not widely available at conventional truck stops or fuel stations. Setting up a hydrogen fueling network across the country would require substantial investments from both private and public sectors. As of now, the infrastructure is limited to a few select regions, making long-haul trips impractical or even impossible for hydrogen-powered trucks.

As an example, there are no fueling stations in Alberta, there are plans to build 13 – 15 fuel stations over the next 3 to 5 years, so why would you buy a H2 powered truck now, if you can’t get fuel.

Uncertain Fuel Prices

The price of hydrogen fuel is still uncertain, primarily due to the nascent nature of the technology and the lack of a well-established market. While proponents argue that hydrogen can be produced through renewable sources, such as electrolysis powered by renewable energy, the reality is that most of the hydrogen production today comes from fossil fuels, primarily natural gas, in a process called steam methane reforming. The fluctuating prices of natural gas, coupled with the high costs of production and transportation, make it challenging to predict the future price of hydrogen fuel accurately. Trucking companies could find themselves vulnerable to volatile fuel prices, leading to unpredictable operational costs. The government hasn’t defined the laws, regulations or even safety guidelines for Hydrogen as a fuel.

Limited Driving Range

Despite advancements in fuel cell technology, hydrogen-powered trucks still face limitations when it comes to driving range compared to traditional diesel trucks. The need for larger, heavier hydrogen storage tanks reduces the payload capacity of these vehicles and may result in more frequent refueling stops. This can impact overall delivery schedules and efficiency, especially for long-haul operations. Can’t go as far, can’t pull as much – what will the margins be, I’m sure the margins are already razor thin.

Short-term steps to reduce emissions

While hydrogen-powered trucks seem like a promising solution, it’s essential to acknowledge that the technology is still in its early stages of development. While the market develops, taking advantage of the few government grants available to commercial carriers and looking at diesel fuel-reducing equipment is a short-term solution, Clean Freight Consultants Inc. can provide the insights, strategies, and qualify fleets for the only grants available to commercial carriers.

While the allure of hydrogen-powered semi-trucks is undeniable, the current realities of high costs, limited fueling infrastructure, uncertain fuel prices, and technical limitations warrant a cautious approach for trucking companies. As industry evolves, and hydrogen technology becomes more mature and economically viable, it will become a more feasible option. Until then, a prudent approach would be to keep an eye on the developments and choose options that offer more immediate and tangible benefits.