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Tokyo, Japan — August 2025
DHL Supply Chain has initiated a pilot program in Japan deploying hydrogen-powered fuel cell (FC) trucks, marking a significant step toward decarbonizing logistics operations in Asia. The initiative is part of a government-supported project aimed at promoting next-generation energy solutions for transportation and aligns with DHL Group’s broader sustainability roadmap.
🔋 Project Overview
- Technology: Hydrogen fuel cell trucks generate electricity via a chemical reaction between hydrogen (stored in high-pressure tanks) and atmospheric oxygen.
- Range: Approximately 260 kilometers per charge, suitable for short- to mid-range logistics operations.
- Emissions: Zero tailpipe emissions; water vapor is the only byproduct.
🧭 Strategic Alignment
This pilot supports DHL Group’s Strategy 2030: Accelerating Sustainable Growth, which includes:
- 30% of air, maritime, and road transport to run on sustainable fuels by 2030.
- Expansion into key growth sectors such as hydrogen, wind, solar, EVs, and alternative fuels.
Jerome Gillet, CEO Japan and Korea, DHL Supply Chain, stated:
“We are very proud of becoming the first country in Asia Pacific at DHL Supply Chain to introduce hydrogen-powered FC trucks. This pilot aligns directly with DHL Group’s aspiration to be the Green Logistics of Choice.”
🤝 Collaboration with Fujitsu
The pilot will initially serve Fujitsu Limited, with deliveries between its operational sites. Expansion to other customers is planned later in 2025.
Takashi Yamanishi, EVP and Chief Sustainability Strategy Officer at Fujitsu, commented:
“We are committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions across our value chain by 2040. This collaboration allows us to explore hydrogen-powered transport as a viable new energy solution.”
💼 Financial & Government Support
- Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation played a key role in facilitating DHL’s participation.
- The initiative is part of a broader government-backed program led by Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation (CJPT), which includes Toyota, Isuzu, Hino, Suzuki, and Daihatsu.
🌱 Broader Implications
Sachiko Kokue, ESG & Sustainability Head, DHL Supply Chain Japan, emphasized:
“The introduction of hydrogen trucks is an important breakthrough toward achieving decarbonization in the transportation sector.”
DHL plans to continue investing in low-carbon technologies to help customers reduce supply chain emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.
