Walmart Canada is the first major retailer in Canada to introduce a hydrogen fuel cell electric semi-truck to its fleet: the Nikola hydrogen fuel cell EV Class 8 tractor.
Nikola announced that Walmart Canada’s new hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric semi-truck is now on the roads in Mississauga, Ontario, as the retailer continues its journey toward a 100% alternatively powered fleet.
According to Nikola, Walmart Canada is also the first retail fleet to operate one of these trucks in North America.
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This first hydrogen FCEV was sourced by Etobicoke, Ontario-based ITD Industries, a transportation solutions provider, and will be deployed in Ontario for longer-haul trips.
“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,” said Gonzalo Gebara, president and CEO of Walmart Canada. “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 carries high-pressure gaseous hydrogen on board in specialized tanks, similar to how a conventional truck carries diesel. The hydrogen then runs through the fuel cell stack, which is converted to electricity by combining it with oxygen. Water vapor is the only by-product. This electric power is transferred to the high-voltage power net, which can charge the onboard batteries and transfer power to the pavement via an e-axle with integrated electric motors.
“As our government massively expands production of clean, reliable, and affordable energy, we’re creating an environment for businesses to invest and create new jobs,” said Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification. “It’s no surprise that Walmart has chosen to deploy its first hydrogen-powered semi-truck in its fleet here in Ontario. We’re rapidly building out Ontario’s hydrogen economy with new production projects that are going to help forward-looking businesses across the province transition to hydrogen vehicles and reduce their emissions.”
