Hyliko HyT44 Hydrogen Truck Completes Field Trials in French Region

Transport operators in Occitanie, France have completed field trials of the Hyliko HyT44 1st Edition hydrogen fuel cell truck, validating performance across regional highways and service roads. The trials are part of the European Corridor H2 initiative, which aims to establish hydrogen supply chains connecting Spain to Germany.

The HyT44 employs a retrofit design that replaces diesel engines in 26-to-44-ton chassis with hybrid electric powertrains. The system features 700-bar compressed hydrogen tanks, Toyota fuel cell stacks, and dual electric motors with regenerative braking capabilities. This architecture enables continuous power delivery suited for long-distance, cross-border freight operations.

Hyliko's business model integrates vehicle rental, telematics, maintenance, insurance, and driver training into a single monthly fee, addressing fleet operators' primary concerns regarding refueling infrastructure and total cost of ownership. The company partners with Lhyfe for green hydrogen supply and works with Capgemini and Kouros on vehicle monitoring and route optimization.

Occitanie's renewable energy infrastructure—including electrolysis plants powered by solar and wind resources—provided an ideal testing environment. The region's mixed transportation demands, from temperature-controlled produce to construction equipment, validated the truck's versatility.

EU road transport accounts for approximately 25 percent of the sector's CO₂ emissions, with heavy-duty vehicles representing a significant share. While battery-electric trucks suit urban deliveries, hydrogen fuel cells offer faster refueling and longer ranges for intercity routes, complementing decarbonization strategies.

Challenges remain, including high infrastructure costs for continent-wide 700-bar refueling station networks and the need to ensure hydrogen production uses renewable sources rather than fossil feedstocks with carbon capture.

Originally reported by Hydrogen Fuel News. Read the full article →