DHL Supply Chain Launches Hydrogen-Powered Trucks in Japan

• Drives transport innovation by utilizing next-generation energy
• Commences testing of hydrogen trucks for practical application

DHL Supply Chain, the global logistics leader, is launching a pilot program using fuel cell trucks (“FC trucks”) powered by hydrogen, reinforcing its commitment to more sustainable transportation in Japan. As part of a government-supported project aimed at achieving a decarbonized society(¹),  DHL Supply Chain Japan will participate as one of the partner companies, testing the feasibility and environmental benefits of hydrogen-powered trucks. By introducing these next-generation vehicles, DHL Supply Chain Japan aims to significantly reduce the environmental impact of logistics operations.

Jerome Gillet, President & Representative Director, CEO Japan and Korea, DHL Supply Chain said, “We are very proud of becoming the first country in Asia Pacific at DHL Supply Chain to introduce hydrogen-powered FC trucks. This pilot aligns directly with DHL Group’s aspiration to be the Green Logistics of Choice, by taking a frontrunner role in deploying low and zero carbon transport solutions. By 2030, 30 percent of our air, maritime and road transport is aimed to run on sustainable fuels. In combination with other projects, such as deploying electric trucks in some service parts logistics operations and our renewable energy partnership at Sagamihara Logistics Center, we are taking tangible steps toward achieving more sustainable logistics that meet the expectations of our customers, partners, and society.”

The FC trucks run on electricity generated from a chemical reaction between hydrogen, stored in high-pressure tanks, and atmospheric oxygen within the fuel cell. With a driving range of approximately 260 kilometers, these vehicles offer both environmental performance and practical utility for commercial use.

Takashi Yamanishi, EVP, CSSO, Fujitsu Limited added, “We are committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions across our value chain by 2040 as part of our long-term environmental strategy, the Fujitsu Climate & Energy Vision. We are pleased to explore the potential of hydrogen-powered transportation as a new energy solution through our collaboration with DHL Supply Chain Japan. We will continue to accelerate and contribute to the development of environmentally friendly supply chains.”

New Energy is a key growth sector under DHL Group’s Strategy 2030: Accelerating Sustainable Growth. The Group is developing end-to-end logistics solutions for eight segments: wind, solar, Electric vehicles (EV) and batteries, battery and energy storage system, EV charging, grid, alternative fuel and hydrogen.

Sachiko Kokue, ESG & Sustainability Head, DHL Supply Chain Japan said, “The introduction of hydrogen trucks is an important breakthrough towards achieving decarbonization in the transportation sector. This pilot has been made possible with the support of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, who helped facilitate our involvement in this initiative led by the Japanese government and Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation (CJPT).  Through this project, we aim to demonstrate a realistic pathway for implementing next-generation energy solutions in logistics.”

DHL remains committed to helping customers reduce carbon emissions in their supply chains and leading the industry in low-carbon logistics operations.

¹ This pilot is conducted in a project which Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation (CJPT) jointly established by Toyota Motor Corporation, Isuzu Motors Limited, Hino Motors, Ltd., Suzuki Motor Corporation, and Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd is implementing as part of "Green Innovation Fund Project - Development of Smart Mobility Society" subsidized by NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization), where DHL participates as a partner company.