Hydrogen Central

DHL Express Tests Hydrogen Trucks in China

dhl express hydrogen trucks

German logistic company DHL Express has launched a pilot project for hydrogen-fueled freight trucks in Shanghai, China. The project aims to verify the performance of hydrogen fuel technology in heavy trucks in actual use and accumulate practical experience for promoting the application of hydrogen fuel cell heavy trucks in the logistics field.

In March 2021, DHL Express’ parent company, Deutsche Post DHL Group, released a new sustainability roadmap with medium- and long-term goals and action plans around ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance).

By 2030, the Group aims to reach 60% electrification of its ground operation pick-up and delivery vehicles worldwide. In China, DHL Express is committed to achieving a 30% share of green-fueled long-haul trucks, in addition to completing its overall goal on schedule.


The pilot program will last for four weeks, and will be used for long-distance transportation of import and export express shipments between DHL’s North Asia Hub at Pudong Airport and DHL’s Shanghai-Jiaxing Service Center on Jingtang Road, with a daily mileage of more than 140 kilometers.

DHL Express tested hydrogen-fueled trucks before in the Benelux region with Apple in 2021. During the piloting phase, up to 35 tons of CO2 can be saved with the new technology, according to DHL.

Alberto Nobis, CEO DHL Express Europe, said:

In a globalized world, sustainable and clean fuels are essential for climate-neutral logistics.

“Not only for sea and air freight but also line-haul road freight, as these help reduce CO2 emissions.”

READ the latest news shaping the hydrogen market at Hydrogen Central

DHL Express tests hydrogen trucks in China, September 2, 2022

Get our LinkedIn updates!

Join our weekly newsletter!

Follow us

Don't be shy, get in touch. We love meeting interesting people and making new friends.