Air Liquide has launched the operation of its first two hydrogen-powered trucks for logistics activities in the Netherlands. These vehicles, branded MAN hTGX, are equipped with internal combustion engines using only hydrogen (H2 ICE). They will be operated by Schenk Tanktransport, Air Liquide’s logistics partner in the Benelux, and integrated into the company’s existing distribution network in the Rotterdam region.
An operational solution for freight transport
The hydrogen-powered trucks will deliver gas to various industrial clients. This replacement of conventional trucks is expected to reduce direct carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from daily operations. Hydrogen as an energy source combines extended range and fast refuelling, two essential criteria for the heavy-duty transport sector. According to the technical specifications provided, these trucks maintain high payload capacity without compromising delivery schedules.
The deployment is part of a project financially supported by the Dutch SWiM programme (Subsidie Waterstof in Mobiliteit), which is dedicated to the development of hydrogen mobility. The scheme partially covers the cost of vehicle procurement as well as refuelling infrastructure, with the aim of accelerating the economic viability of the sector. This strategy helps establish regional ecosystems built around hydrogen by anticipating logistics and distribution needs.
A replicable model for other markets
Air Liquide states that this model is designed to be replicated in other areas of activity, in partnership with logistics and industrial supply chain actors. The initiative comes as several European markets are testing similar configurations to decarbonise their logistics flows. The Dutch project represents one of the first operational cases of heavy transport using hydrogen in a commercial setting.
Erwin Penfornis, Vice-President of Air Liquide’s global Hydrogen Energy business, said: “The commissioning of these first hydrogen trucks in our operations is a strong and concrete example of our commitment to driving the transformation of the heavy transport sector with our various partners across the value chain.”
