Isuzu and Honda plan FCEV heavy-duty truck for 2027

Isuzu and Honda are partnering so Honda can develop and supply the fuel cell system for the fuel cell-powered heavy-duty truck Isuzu intends introducing to the market in 2027.

Joint Isuzu-Honda research and development efforts produced an FCEV heavy-duty truck that has been granted a Japanese license plate number for use on public roads.

Isuzu and Honda believe that fuel cell technology, utilising hydrogen as fuel resulting in no CO2 emissions, will be effective to achieve carbon neutrality of heavy-duty trucks which are required to address large load capacity, long-time use, long-distance driving and the need for quick refuelling.

Since the signing of an agreement in January 2020 to conduct joint research on heavy-duty trucks using fuel cells as the powertrain, the two companies have been working toward the establishment of a foundation for basic technologies such as ensuring the compatibility of fuel cells and heavy-duty trucks and the development of vehicle control technologies.

The two companies are planning to start demonstration testing of a prototype truck on public roads before the end of the current fiscal year (ending March 31, 2024).

By fully leveraging experience and knowledge gained through the joint research, the two will continue making progress in the development of products that fulfil the performance and conditions required for heavy-duty trucks and satisfy customers.

The joint FCEV project is expected to contribute to the shift toward the use of clean energy by the entire industry, including logistics businesses, with more proactive use of hydrogen energy.