Fuel-cell joint venture

Isuzu and Honda have signed a partnership agreement for the latter to develop and supply the fuel-cell system for a heavy-duty truck Isuzu is planning to launch in 2027.

The two companies believe fuel-cell technology, utilising hydrogen as fuel that results in no carbon-dioxide emissions, will be effective to achieve carbon neutrality of heavy-duty trucks.

These types of vehicles are required to tackle 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 such trucks using fuel cells as the powertrain, the two companies have been working towards establishing a foundation for basic technologies. These include ensuring the compatibility of fuel cells and trucks, and developing of vehicle-control technologies. 

Honda and Isuzu are planning to start demonstration testing a prototype on public roads by March 2024.