Walmart Canada has rolled out a hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric semi-truck (FCEV) into its fleet as part of its efforts to become a regenerative company.
The vehicle, now operational in Mississauga, Ontario, marks a move towards the retailer’s goal of a 100% alternatively powered fleet.
Manufactured by Nikola, the Hydrogen Fuel Cell EV Class 8 truck has a range of approximately 800km.
It operates with zero tailpipe emissions and can avoid 97mt of CO₂ emissions per year on average.
Walmart Canada has become the first retail fleet in North America to utilise this technology.
The hydrogen-powered truck represents a leap forward in long-haul travel capabilities for Walmart Canada’s fleet, which previously relied on electric options with a more limited range.
ITD Industries, based in Etobicoke, Ontario, supplied the pioneering hydrogen FCEV, which will be used for longer-haul trips within Ontario.
Walmart Canada president and CEO Gonzalo Gebara said: “We’re proud to be introducing Walmart Canada’s first hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle as a major milestone on our journey to becoming a regenerative company.
“This is a first for a retailer in Canada and is an example of how we will continue to push forward, embrace new technology and spark change within the industry.”
The Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric semi-truck operates by storing hydrogen gas at high pressure in specialised tanks.
The hydrogen is then converted into electricity in the fuel cell stack, merging it with oxygen and emitting only water vapor as a byproduct.
The generated electric power charges the onboard batteries and powers the electric motors integrated into the e-axle.
Nikola president and CEO Steve Girsky said: “This collaboration with Walmart Canada, a brand committed to a more sustainable future, aligns perfectly with our mission to drive innovation and environmental responsibility in the transportation industry.”
Walmart Canada operates a network of 400 stores across the country, serving 1.5 million customers daily.
The introduction of this sustainability measure comes after Walmart Canada reopened its Square One Supercentre in Mississauga, Ontario, as a flagship location.
“Walmart Canada rolls out hydrogen fuel cell electric semi-truck ” was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand.
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