Isuzu forges partnership with Honda for fuel-cell powered trucks production

Isuzu Motors Limited (IML) is set to produce fuel-cell powered trucks and has tapped Honda Motor Company Limited to take part in it.

In a statement, IML announced that it has forged partnership with its fellow Japanese vehicle manufacturer that will push the latter to develop and supply the fuel cell system for the former’s alternatively-powered heavy-duty truck that is set to make its global debut by 2027.

Both brands expressed firm belief that the fuel cell technology — utilizing hydrogen as fuel resulting in zero carbon dioxide emissions — will be effective to achieve carbon neutrality of heavy-duty trucks that are meant to address large load capacity, long-time use, long-distance driving and the need for quick refueling.

The partnership to conduct joint research on heavy-duty trucks utilizing fuel cells as powertrain between the two started in January 2020. IML said that the two firms “have been working toward the establishment of a foundation for basic technologies such as ensuring the compatibility of fuel cells and heavy-duty trucks and the development of vehicle control technologies.”

Currently, Isuzu and Honda are planning to start the demonstration testing of a prototype truck on public roads before March 31, 2024. “By fully leveraging experience and knowledge gained through the joint research, the two companies will continue making progress in the development of products that fulfill the performance and conditions required for heavy-duty trucks and satisfy customers,” Isuzu explained.

Further, two companies will take advantage of their respective strengths and boost the development of clean, low-noise, low-vibration fuel cell- powered heavy-duty trucks. Such an initiative is expected to contribute to the shift toward the use of clean energy by the entire industry — including logistics businesses — with more proactive use of hydrogen energy.

Photos from Isuzu

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