PACCAR and Toyota Motor North America, Inc. (Toyota) have announced an expansion of their joint efforts to develop and manufacture zero-emission, hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) trucks under the Kenworth and Peterbilt brands. The partnership aims to leverage Toyota's next-generation hydrogen fuel cell modules to power the Kenworth T680 and Peterbilt 579 models, with initial deliveries expected in 2024. This expansion builds upon their successful collaboration in FCEV truck development over the past few years.
Enhancing Zero-Emission Truck Development
The previous pilot program, which involved ten Kenworth T680 FCEV trucks deployed at the Port of Los Angeles, provided valuable real-world feedback to both Kenworth and Toyota. The insights gained from the pilot program helped improve the performance and range of the vehicles. Leveraging this experience, the companies are now focused on the development and commercialization of zero-emission versions of the Kenworth T680 and Peterbilt 579 models.
Toyota's Zero-Emission Powertrain Kit
Toyota's heavy-duty fuel cell electric powertrain kit, designed specifically for heavy-duty commercial vehicles, has recently been granted the Zero Emission Powertrain certification by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This certification recognizes the effectiveness of Toyota's powertrain in reducing emissions. As part of the expanded agreement, Toyota will commence module assembly in the United States by late 2023, reinforcing its commitment to localized production.
Shared Vision and Benefits
John Rich, PACCAR chief technology officer, expressed confidence in the collaboration,
"Having worked extensively with the Toyota team, we are confident that our combined efforts can deliver industry-leading FCEV trucks with all of the quality, reliability, and aftermarket support that Kenworth and Peterbilt customers depend upon."
The partnership expands PACCAR's impressive lineup of zero-emission vehicles, enabling customers to enhance operational efficiency and minimize their environmental impact.
Christopher Yang, TMNA group vice president of Business Development, highlighted the significance of this innovative technology,
"We are excited to work with PACCAR to realize a future where Toyota's industry-leading hydrogen fuel cell technology can power heavy-duty trucks that will travel across highways throughout the U.S. with zero emissions."
This collaboration allows commercial customers to embrace a carbon-neutral option that aligns with Toyota's mission to reduce and ultimately eliminate carbon emissions from the environment.
The expanded partnership between PACCAR and Toyota marks a significant step forward in the development and production of zero-emission, hydrogen fuel cell trucks. By combining their expertise and leveraging Toyota's advanced fuel cell technology, the companies aim to deliver high-quality, reliable, and environmentally friendly trucks to customers. With the initial customer deliveries planned for 2024, this collaboration is set to make a substantial contribution to the reduction of carbon emissions in the commercial trucking industry.