Hydrogen fuel cells have a reputation as the poor relation to EVs, indeed some see hydrogen as a flailing transport solution, but the concept is gaining momentum in heavy goods, with US maker Nikola producing 43 hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks for in Q1 2024.

The company produced 43 and wholesaled 40 Class 8 Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles, with CEO Steve Girsky saying: “We are on track for a successful 2024 by continuing the momentum set in 2023.”

A number of vehicles measured in the tens might not seem a great, but the advantages of quick refuelling are particularly appealing to lorries or trucks where refuelling will also, generally, take place at depots, and as with EVs as more facilities are added, the scales tip in favour of creating more.

“We anticipate further sales growth in future quarters as our HYLA hydrogen fuelling solutions come online. This includes our recently celebrated first modular refuelling station in Ontario, California, as well as our first Canadian refuelling station in Edmonton, Alberta,” continued Girsky. “It’s rewarding for our team to see us out on the field, leading the effort for the decarbonisation of the industry.”

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