Walmart Canada Debuts Hydrogen-Powered Semi-Truck in Ontario

Walmart Canada has introduced its first hydrogen fuel cell electric semi-truck, making it the first major retailer in the country to adopt this green technology. The Nikola Hydrogen Fuel Cell EV Class 8 tractor, operating with zero tailpipe emissions, boasts a range of approximately 800 kilometres. This innovation is expected to eliminate around 97 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually, as per the manufacturer's estimates.

The retailer's move to integrate hydrogen fuel cells into its fleet is significant for long-haul travel, enhancing the range capabilities beyond current electric options. The truck, sourced by Etobicoke-based ITD Industries Inc., will be used for longer trips across Ontario.

“This is a major milestone on our journey to becoming a regenerative company,” said Gonzalo Gebara, Pesident and CEO of Walmart Canada. “We are proud to be the first retailer in Canada to introduce a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle and continue to push forward, embrace new technology, and spark change within the industry.”

“We are incredibly proud to support Walmart's sustainability initiatives and their historic milestone of being the first retail fleet in Canada to operate a hydrogen fuel cell electric semi-truck,” said Steve Girsky, Nikola's President and CEO. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to drive innovation and environmental responsibility in the transportation industry.”

The Nikola hydrogen fuel cell truck operates by storing high-pressure gaseous hydrogen in specialized tanks, which is then converted to electricity through a fuel cell stack, with water vapor as the only byproduct. This power is used to charge onboard batteries and drive the vehicle's electric motors.

Hydrogen, recognized for its high energy per unit and abundance, plays a crucial role in the transition towards a carbon-neutral future, as noted by Natural Resources Canada.

“Introducing this hydrogen fuel cell semi-truck is a major milestone towards our goal of powering 100% of our fleet with alternative energy,” added Michael Buna, Walmart Canada's Senior Director of the National Fleet. “Embracing additional types of alternative power allows us to go further, faster.”