Isuzu Motors Limited and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. are set to showcase the GIGA FUEL CELL, a heavy-duty truck powered by fuel cells (FC), at the JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW 2023. This co-developed vehicle, making its public debut at the Isuzu Group booth, will be on display from Saturday, October 28 to Sunday, November 5, 2023, at Tokyo Big Sight, Tokyo, Japan.
Driving Carbon Neutrality with FC Technology
Isuzu and Honda are collaborating on the development of the GIGA FUEL CELL, recognising the potential of FC technology, which utilises hydrogen as fuel and produces no CO2 emissions. This technology is seen as a valuable avenue for achieving carbon neutrality in the realm of heavy-duty trucks. Such trucks need to meet high-efficiency transportation demands, which include long-distance capabilities, large load capacity, and quick refuelling options.
A Joint Research Journey
The partnership between Isuzu and Honda began with an agreement in January 2020 to jointly research FC-powered heavy-duty trucks. Since then, the companies have been diligently working on verifying the compatibility of the FC system with heavy-duty trucks and establishing a foundation for fundamental technologies like vehicle control systems.
Upcoming Demonstration Testing and Market Introduction
A significant milestone in their collaboration is the planned demonstration testing of a prototype model on public roads, which is expected to commence before the end of the current fiscal year, concluding on March 31, 2024. The two companies intend to launch the production model of the GIGA FUEL CELL into the market by 2027. This launch will leverage the technology, experience, and knowledge accumulated during their joint research.
Practical Features of the GIGA FUEL CELL
The GIGA FUEL CELL model presented at the Japan Mobility Show will adopt the Lowdeck 8×4 rigid truck configuration, a common setup for intercity transportation trucks. What makes the GIGA FUEL CELL stand out is its impressive range of over 800 km/500 miles, as per Isuzu validation mode. This attribute positions the GIGA FUEL CELL as a zero-emission heavy-duty truck with practical usability. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with an external power output function, allowing it to serve as a “mobile power station” when necessary, taking advantage of its substantial energy capacity unique to FC vehicles using hydrogen as fuel, particularly in emergencies or disaster situations.
Future Goals for FC-Powered Heavy-Duty Trucks
Isuzu and Honda are diligently working towards their goal of introducing a FC-powered heavy-duty truck to the market in 2027. They aim to continue the development process, focusing on the performance and conditions required for heavy-duty trucks to ensure customer satisfaction and fulfil industry requirements.