Walmart Canada has launched its first hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric semi-truck in Mississauga, Ontario, marking a significant step towards its goal of a 100% alternatively-powered fleet. This makes Walmart Canada the first major retailer in the country to integrate a hydrogen fuel cell electric semi-truck into its operations. The Nikola Hydrogen Fuel Cell EV Class 8 tractor, boasting a range of approximately 800 kilometers and zero tailpipe emissions, is expected to avoid 97 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually, according to the manufacturer.
A Milestone in Sustainable Transportation
The introduction of the hydrogen-powered semi-truck, sourced from ITD Industries Inc. based in Etobicoke, Ontario, paves the way for longer-haul travel using alternative power. This addition will be deployed for longer-haul trips within Ontario, enhancing the reach and efficiency of Walmart Canada’s fleet.
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“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.”
Industry and Government Support
Steve Girsky, Nikola’s President and CEO, expressed pride in supporting Walmart’s sustainability initiatives, stating, “This collaboration with Walmart Canada aligns perfectly with our mission to drive innovation and environmental responsibility in the transportation industry.”
Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification, Stephen Lecce, highlighted the province’s supportive environment for hydrogen-powered innovations. “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.”
Technical Details of the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Semi-Truck
The Nikola semi-truck operates by storing high-pressure gaseous hydrogen in specialized tanks, akin to diesel storage in conventional trucks. The hydrogen is then processed through a fuel cell stack, producing electricity by combining it with oxygen, with water vapor as the only byproduct. This electricity charges the onboard batteries and powers the vehicle via an e-axle with integrated electric motors.
Walmart Canada’s Commitment to Sustainability
Michael Buna, Senior Director of National Fleet at Walmart Canada, emphasized the company’s ambitious plan to fully transition to an alternatively-powered fleet. “We’re proud to be the first retailer in Canada to introduce a hydrogen fuel cell semi-truck to our fleet as a major milestone towards achieving that goal,” he stated. “Embracing additional types of alternative power allows us to go further, faster.”
The Role of Hydrogen in a Carbon-Neutral Future
Hydrogen, the most abundant element on earth, holds the highest energy per unit of any fuel and is critical for achieving a carbon-neutral future, according to Natural Resources Canada. This initiative by Walmart Canada underscores the potential of hydrogen as a sustainable energy source in the logistics and transportation sector.
For more information, visit Walmart Canada.
About Walmart Canada
Walmart Canada operates over 400 stores nationwide and serves 1.5 million customers daily. With a robust online presence at Walmart.ca and a workforce exceeding 100,000 associates, Walmart Canada is one of the country’s largest employers and a top 10 influential brand. The company’s extensive philanthropy program has raised and donated over $750 million to Canadian charities since 1994.
For updates and more information, follow Walmart Canada on social media: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn.
SOURCE: Walmart Canada
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