In just a few months, the inaugural hydrogen-powered heavy-duty truck is set to hit the roads of Australia. This milestone is made possible through a collaboration with PepsiCo, which is poised to establish Australia as a leading "global green energy provider," according to a Queensland minister.
PepsiCo, in conjunction with vehicle distributor HDrive and energy provider Pure Hydrogen, has announced its intention to include the Taurus prime-mover in its fleet. The vehicle will undergo a six-month trial period as part of this exciting venture.
Following its pioneering initiative of being the first company to receive deliveries of Tesla electric trucks earlier this year, PepsiCo is embarking on its second zero-emission truck trial. However, before the trial can commence, certain conditions must be fulfilled. The hydrogen-powered prime mover, designated for operation between Tarragindi and Lytton on Brisbane's southside, needs to undergo additional safety inspections. Additionally, the trial awaits the opening of Queensland's inaugural public hydrogen refueling station.
Kyle Faulconer, the Chief Executive of PepsiCo Australia, told the Australian that the upcoming trial of the hydrogen-powered truck would involve the transportation of food and beverages to distribution hubs. Notably, this vehicle will be the first of its kind to join the company's fleet, marking an important milestone in PepsiCo's commitment to sustainable transportation.
“This test isn’t just the first for us in Australia, it’s the first for us globally. We’re excited about the hydrogen potential in Australia especially because it’s produced here and it’s green-produced, which is one of the key elements.”
According to Faulconer, PepsiCo has opted to conduct trials with hydrogen-powered trucks in Australia instead of electric trucks due to the country's limited availability of large-scale solar power. The specially customized Taurus truck, capable of carrying an 18-ton payload and traveling up to 300 km, will be utilized in the trial. Should the truck trial prove successful, Faulconer expressed the company's intention to replace other heavy trucks within its current fleet of 16 vehicles.
