Project Summary
Evidence from the logistics sector shows a strong growing interest in reducing environmental impact through the use of zero-emission vehicles. This is particularly the case for the EU, where the logistics sector contributes 25% of total transport sector CO2 emissions. While battery electric trucks can operate efficiently in urban areas, hydrogen technology has a key role to play in zero-emission logistics over longer distances. Heavy-duty vehicles with a fuel cell range extender - while not yet commercially available in het EU - have huge potential. While opening a new market, it can also contribute to green transport solutions by reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality.
The project aims to unlock this potential and will join forces beginning with four front-runner NWE regions in thee member states (BE, NL, DE) experienced in hydrogen technology. (H2-Share stands for 'Hydrogen Solutions for Heavy-duty transport Aimed at Reduction of Emissions in North-West Europe'.) Based on the project partners' experiences and contacts with innovative end-users, one 27 ton rigid truck run on hydrogen and one flexible low energy mobile refueler will be built and tested. These will be developed in collaboration with important, current end-users involved in different regions. A demo plan will be created through the joint effort of sectoral agencies to ensure maximum involvement of regions, end-users, associations and other stakeholders. These demonstrations will build strong visibility, joint experiences and public awareness around hydrogen solutions in heavy-duty transport. They will also develop a joint roadmap for NWE.
The goal is to facilitate wider implementation of transnational low-carbon transport solutions. By activating this market, NWE will become a leader in Europe for zero-emission heavy-duty transport. Concrete targets include: a 5% market share by 2030 (10.000 heavy-duty vehicles), the creation of 1.000 jobs, CO2 reduction of 1 million tons/year and stimulate (truck) production in NWE based industry.