TR Group and Hiringa sign fuel cell partnership

Hiringa Energy and TR Group have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to offer heavy fuel cell electric trucks for the New Zealand market.

It will be powered by Hiringa’s nation-wide hydrogen refuelling network, and TR’s heavy fleet lease, rental, and maintenance management expertise.

The companies will offer fuel-inclusive lease packages for heavy vehicle operators and companies looking to decarbonise their supply chain.

The vehicles will be offered in several configurations and weight classes including over 50t combined mass and 6×4 and 8×4 drivetrains. The first vehicles are expected to be available in 2021.

The partnership builds on Hiringa’s technical expertise and relationships with international fuel cell manufacturers, integrators and OEMs. It also builds on Hiringa’s existing partnership with TIL

, one of New Zealand’s leading transport and logistics companies.

Hiringa and TR Group will jointly work to ensure New Zealand suitable solutions are available to meet heavy vehicle operators’ needs and introduce the technology to New Zealand.

Hiringa’s refuelling network, expected to begin operations in the first half of 2021, will provide coverage of the major freight routes in the North and South Islands.

“We are pleased to announce this ground-breaking partnership with TR Group,” Hiringa Energy chief executive Andrew Clennett says.

“Their truck and leasing expertise is critical in ensuring we can offer decarbonisation pathways for all heavy fleet operators across our refuelling network.

“With Hiringa’s deep expertise in hydrogen mobility solutions and TR Group’s broad reach across New Zealand’s premiere heavy freight and transport companies, the partnership will be a catalyst in accelerating the decarbonisation of New Zealand’s heavy fleet.”

TR Group managing director Andrew Carpenter says customers “are really interested in getting zero emission trucks on the road”.

“At the same time, they are well aware of the many difficulties and risks involved in getting the vehicles and the supporting system set up and working well. Our aim with this partnership is to help make it easier for clients to get to their goal and reduce some of the risks for them along the way.”

TIL chief executive Alan Pearson says he applauds the new partnership.

“TR’s inclusion strengthens our collective team synergies through the addition of truck funding options and many more benefits.

“Fulfilment of our shared vision and strategic objectives is enhanced by this move,” Pearson says.