Werner Enterprises added a hydrogen fuel cell electric truck to its fleet, according to a news release last month.
The newly acquired 2021 International RH Series truck represents a significant advancement in clean energy transportation, the carrier said. The carrier planned to add the hydrogen vehicle in early 2024 following testing in Southern California.
“Powered by technology from Accelera™ by Cummins, the zero-emissions business segment of Cummins Inc., this truck uses both an Accelera hydrogen fuel cell engine and electric powertrain for emissions-free operation,” Werner said.
The carrier has a goal of reducing its carbon footprint by 55% by 2035, and the company has described hydrogen fuel cell trucks as having a better mileage range, a shorter refueling time and lighter weight than battery electric trucks.
But the company is still using more battery electric trucks. The carrier said it expected all 10 of the EV trucks it has ordered to be in service early this year, per its Corporate Social Responsibility Report.
Werner also noted the potential for compressed natural gas trucks to comply with California Air Resources Board and 2027 Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
“We are committed to staying at the forefront of technology and to finding alternative ways to keep our trucks environmentally-friendly while using renewable energy,” the report said.
Other carriers such as Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings and Old Dominion Freight Line are also pursuing reduced emissions for 2035, but their boards recently clashed with some investors who argued the carriers' efforts needed to go further.
