TR Group has launched its hydrogen 50-tonne prime mover, at a customer event at Hampton Downs Racetrack this week.
Produced in partnership with Global Bus Ventures, K1W1 and Toyota New Zealand, the truck offers a practical zero-emissions solution for heavy freight transport, able to operate with conventional trailers and loads.
It has comparable refuelling times with diesel and will align with normal operator driving hours and schedules.
The 50-tonne GBV hydrogen prime mover is based on the DAF CF 530, with a zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell conversion by local experts GBV. The truck’s energy comes from two Toyota 85kW fuel cells (170kW total), a 124kWh battery system, and 52kg of onboard hydrogen storage, providing 450-500km of driving range.
Power is delivered by a 350kW/2400Nm electric motor paired with a six-speed gearbox.
GBV has been producing heavy vehicles for over 50 years and is New Zealand’s leading hydrogen vehicle integrator. GBV introduced New Zealand’s first hydrogen heavy vehicle, the Auckland Transport hydrogen bus, and designed and supplied the hydrogen-electric power systems for the America’s Cup chase boats.
“This prime mover represents several years of R&D, making its launch into commercial operation a significant milestone for the company,” said Mike Parker, executive vice president of GVB
Tatsuya Ishikawa, CEO, Toyota New Zealand, added: “Toyota’s ongoing work with hydrogen technology in New Zealand aligns with its global commitment to carbon neutrality.
“From heavy-duty commercial vehicles to hydrogen-powered marine vessels and off-grid generators, Toyota is demonstrating that hydrogen is more than just a fuel – it’s a key part of the clean energy future.
“Through its investments and collaborations, Toyota New Zealand is helping to build a robust hydrogen ecosystem that will benefit both businesses and communities across the country.” Ishikawa said.
“Through our diverse efforts, Toyota New Zealand is bolstering the domestic hydrogen industry while also demonstrating the versatility and potential of hydrogen technology in creating a sustainable energy landscape.”
TR Group’s general manager, Brendan King, said: “Having been on the decarbonisation journey for several years now, and with over 60 battery-electric trucks and New Zealand’s first commercial heavy hydrogen truck, we are delighted further to expand our hydrogen truck options for our customers.
“This includes 16 hydrogen 50-tonne prime movers, four Hyundai Xcient FCEV rigid chassis trucks, as well as several CH2NGE dual-fuel truck options.”
The 20 zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell trucks are part of a Government-supported programme alongside Hiringa Energy, who already have three hydrogen fuel stations operating with one more under construction now. The government support enables the first 20 zero-emission hydrogen trucks to be offered at competitive lease rates.
Hiringa Energy co-founder and chief executive Andrew Clennett said having a New Zealand-based truck integrator now makes hydrogen more viable than ever.
“Hydrogen is ultra-fast, reliable and available now. The Hiringa refuelling network covers 95% of North Island freight routes, allowing transport operators to reduce carbon emissions without impacting productivity, this meets the growing customer demand for decarbonised supply chains,” he said.
“We congratulate TR Group and GBV on this milestone achievement and look forward to having these trucks on the network.”
Hyundai New Zealand will continue its support of the increased use of Hydrogen FCEV trucks in New Zealand with an additional four Xcient heavy duty trucks to complement the success of the first Hyundai truck, operated by NZ Post contractor Shea Transport.
