Two hydrogen-powered trucks have been deployed by Edeka Nord to perform logistics operations in Germany.
As a regional subsidiary of one of Germany’s largest supermarket cooperatives, Edeka Group, the company will use the Hyundai XCIENT fuel cell-powered trucks to deliver goods to stores in the nation’s northern regions.
For the pilot operations, which are part of a wider company initiative to reduce carbon footprint, the vehicles will be closely monitored over the coming months, with a focus on range, efficiency in daily use, and the refuelling infrastructure required.
“We are committed to sustainable logistics solutions and will continue to evaluate innovative technologies and alternative drive systems to minimise our environmental footprint,” explained Helen Dahlke, who is responsible for sustainability at Edeka Nord.
Klas Mahlstedt, Head of Logistics at Edeka Nord, added, “The logistics sector, in particular, must explore new approaches to meet climate targets.
“Deploying hydrogen trucks is an innovative step towards making our transport operations more sustainable.”
The Hyundai XCIENT trucks in operation are equipped with two 90kW hydrogen fuel cell systems and boast a driving range of over 450 miles per charge, with short refueling times enhancing their practicality for logistics.
At the same time, EDEKA Nord is also testing HVO-powered operations as an alternative to both fuel cell trucks and conventional fossil fuels, exploring multiple pathways to sustainable transport.
However, the hydrogen-powered trucking sector has faced a turbulent start to 2025. US truck manufacturer Nikola has filed for bankruptcy, while UK-based Hydrogen Vehicle Systems (HVS) has announced a strategic shift – focusing on licensing its hydrogen propulsion systems rather than manufacturing trucks.
Read more:Trio’s woes shine spotlight on stalling hydrogen fuel cell trucking sector
The company’s former leadership reportedly took the business to the brink of collapse. Meanwhile, troubled truck manufacturer Hyzon has issued a special voting share to its acting CEO, Dr. Christian Mohrdieck, to ensure its proposed liquidation and dissolution plans proceed.
