Isuzu has tasked Honda with the development and supply of a fuel cell system for a fuel cell-powered heavy-duty truck that Isuzu aims to bring to market in 2027.
Both OEMs view hydrogen fuel cell technology as an effective way to achieve carbon neutrality within the heavy-duty truck sector, which poses challenges regarding large load capacity, driving for extended periods of time over long distances, and the need for efficient refueling.
In January 2020, Isuzu and Honda signed an agreement for collaborative research into heavy-duty trucks using fuel cells as the powertrain. At present, the OEMs are planning to begin demonstration testing of a prototype truck on public roads before the end of March 2024.
Moving forward, both vehicle manufacturers will draw on each other’s respective expertise to speed up the deployment of fuel-cell powered heavy trucks and support the decarbonization of the industry.
